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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Dt Otey, MPH, DrPH cand, School of Public Health Division of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University, 3071 Perry Ave. Suite 3C, Bronx, NY 10467, (917) 570-7638, dionneotey@yahoo.com

Numerous studies assert that although Black women are less likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer than White women, they are more likely to die from the disease. Previous research has investigated factors related to this disparity in mortality including health literacy, cancer knowledge, and screening practices. The primary aim of this study is to assess the health literacy levels and breast cancer knowledge in a sample of senior Black women in Harlem, New York. Women, aged 50 and older, with no previous diagnosis of breast cancer were recruited for participation. Reading ability was assessed via the Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine and comprehension via the Short Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults. Subjects also participated in an interview to assess cancer knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Results from 25 pilot interviews revealed an average REALM score of 52.4 (equivalent to a 7th-8th grade level), while the average STOFHLA score was 21.87 (equivalent to a marginal functional health literacy level). Breast cancer knowledge was assessed via the Breast Cancer Perceptions and Knowledge Survey. Responses revealed that almost 70% of women in the sample believed that being hit on the breast can cause breast cancer, over 30% believed that breast cancer is more common in women with big breasts, and 44% stated that certain sexual activities can increase a woman's risk of breast cancer. Open ended responses from questions asking participants to define common terms and identify risk factors related to breast cancer will also be presented.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to

• State the average health literacy level for a sample of urban senior African-American women.
• Assess the breast cancer knowledge for a sample of urban senior African-American women.

Keywords: Breast Cancer, African American

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No