Examination of Factors Influencing Lack of Utilization of Mammography by African American Women on a County Level

Literature suggests that participation in mammography screening may be of major importance for decreasing the morbidity and mortality related to breast cancer. This method of secondary prevention is of utmost importance in uninsured and underserved African American women who forego early detection at the same time they maybe more at risk for aggressive disease. Thus, it is paramount to examine the influencing and intervening factors for African American women who have access to mammography services but choose not to use them. The participants will be will be recruited from Camden City, New Jersey, which is one of the poorest cities in the nation. Using components of three theoretical frameworks, the long term goal of this study is to increase early detection of disease and to improve survival of African American women who are diagnosed with breast cancer. The specific aims of the research include examining the relationship of health beliefs, acculturation, and healthcare avoidance on mammography utilization and identifying the effect of behavioral, cultural, sociodemographic and/or structural barriers on lack of utilization of mammography screening services in the targeted population. An innovative explanatory sequential mixed method research design will be utilized for the data collection component of the program prior to intervention. Through identification of barriers and facilitators that influence African American women's healthcare decision making related to mammography screening, healthcare professionals and public health advocates can develop education and service programs that address the health beliefs and acculturation of this diverse underserved population.