Disparities in breast cancer awareness and stage of diagnosis among women in Philadelphia

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer diagnosed among women. While there is currently no cure, early detection via self breast examination, mammography, and clinical breast exams are imperative to reduce disease burden and increase survival rates. The Drexel University College of Medicine/Tenet Women's Health Project provides access to free breast health services for uninsured women in Philadelphia. The primary objective of this study is to identify the knowledge and beliefs associated with mammography utilization among project participants and identify characteristics of patients confirmed with breast cancer. A survey was mailed in order to assess breast cancer knowledge and screening behavior, and retrospective chart reviews conducted to identify and characterize positive cases. Analysis was conducted with SPSS and SAS. Preliminary results show that the African American participants among the confirmed positive cases present with more advanced stages of breast cancer than Asian and White women. Participants from South Philadelphia appear to have negative perceptions about the importance of mammograms in comparison to women in other regions of Philadelphia. Family history of cancer is significantly associated (p<0.05) with incomplete knowledge about abnormal mammograms and self breast exams. The results indicate a significant (p<0.05) discrepancy between the utilization of free mammograms and belief in the importance of mammograms, self breast exams, and proper interpretation of abnormal mammograms. It is therefore imperative that the Women's Health Project collaborate with grassroots community organizations to expand its breast cancer education endeavors and provide more comprehensive prevention efforts consisting of both awareness and access.