From needs assessment to the Komen College Tour


Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

3252.0: Monday, December 12, 2005 - Board 1

Abstract #100679

Susan E. Brown, MS, RN, The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, 5005 LBJ Freeway Suite 250, Dallas, TX 75244, 972-855-1635, sbrown@komen.org

Purpose: The planning/implementation of an effective breast health awareness program utilizing information from a 2001 nationwide assessment of breast health/cancer information needs of young women.

Assessment of Need: The assessment revealed a general lack of knowledge about breast cancer/screening in young women; most breast cancer materials/programs focus on mammograms/screening for women 40+; young women don't feel that breast cancer messages/materials are intended for them; young women lack confidence in BSE performance; they are interested in how to prevent breast cancer.

Strategies: Findings were utilized to develop an interactive program targeting young women. The program was designed to reach them in their own environment and in their own voice. Resources were also provided about breast cancer and the Komen Foundation. A trailer traveled to ten colleges over two weeks to encourage young women to develop healthy breast health and lifestyle habits. Program elements include bilingual educational materials, an interactive BSE tool, graffiti wall and an onsite health care professional.

Evaluation: Quantitative and qualitative measures.

Outcomes: Participation in interactive program activities onsite. Post event follow-up found that program participants had engaged in breast health activities, discussed breast cancer with family/friends, visited the Komen Web site, and felt that they had learned from the program. Long-term outcomes could include sustained BSE and CBE practice, volunteering/participating in local Komen events, and activism in public policy efforts to improve breast health services for all women.

Implications: College-aged students are interested in breast cancer information. The delivery of breast health/cancer messages should be targeted and specific.

Learning Objectives:

At the completion of this program, participants will be able to

Discuss the application of needs assessment findings to the development of a targeted breast health awareness program.
Describe successful elements of the Komen College Tour.

Keywords: Breast Cancer, Women's Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.

Innovations and Interventions in Health Education

The 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition (December 10-14, 2005) of APHA