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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Dee M. Baldwin, PhD RN, Byrdine F. Lewis School of Nursing, Georgia State University, PO Box 4019, Atlanta, GA 30302 and Sandra Mitchell, MEd, Jacksonville State University, 536 Bentleaf Drive, Dallas, GA 30132, 770-634-3181, sandramitchell22@yahoo.com.

While breast cancer is the second most common cause of cancer deaths in African American women (AAW), older AAW continue to have high rates of mortality from breast cancer (BC) and are not as likely as white women to seek mammograms. Researchers have suggested socioeconomic factors, cultural factors, beliefs, and barriers as reasons for this disparity. The greatest disparity in BC screening in the Atlanta area is seen in older AAW, 50 years of age and older, and have never had a mammogram

This investigation was to determine if Women Health Navigators (WHNs) could serve as ambassadors for promoting BC awareness and mammography screening in low-income African American communities. The project targeted 1000 older AAW with breast health education in zip codes designated as low-income and high mortality related to BC. Two research questions guided the study: What are the effects of a Navigators' program in promoting BC awareness and mammography screening in older AAW and, Is there a relationship between the knowledge level of WHNs and AAW's use of mammography?

While the study is completed, data analysis has not been finalized. Findings from the study have implications for developing and evaluating breast educational programs to promote mammography screening in older AAW. Results will support those factors that help identify screening behaviors for this population. Findings from this study will add to literature regarding using volunteers to support BC education in high risk groups.

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

• Recognize 5 breast cancer awareness education community outreach strategies.
• Describe 3 ways to detect breast cancer early.
• Apply strategies of the Women's Health Navigators Program for use in another U.S. city or with education of another health condition.

Keywords: Breast Cancer Programs, Ethnic Minorities

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered