Breast cancer screeening survey for women with disabilities

Although research and clinical practice indicate that a mammogram is an important screening tool used to aid in the early detection and diagnosis of breast cancer in women, accessing mammography has been shown to be quite difficult for women with physical disabilities. We developed and distributed an anonymous online 22-item questionnaire to women with disabilities in the state of Montana. We collected information about experiences women (n= 56) with disabilities have had with mammography and other breast health issues. Participants in general were 40 years or older; however 10% reported they were younger than 40 years of age but were recommended to have a mammogram. Physical disability was most commonly reported among women (63%). Six percent of women indicated they have utilized the state Breast and Cervical Health Program for financial assistance with breast cancer screening, while 25% reported they did not know if their personal insurance covered mammograms. Distances from individual's homes to healthcare providers ranged from less than 1 mile to 150 miles. Family history of breast cancer was reported among 36% of respondents and only 62% of women received a mammogram within the recommended guidelines. Nearly half (54%) of respondents who reported having a mammogram in the past did not experience any difficulties obtaining mammograms, while 26% reported difficulties accessing the mammography machine itself. A variety of barriers were noted as the reason women did not receive a mammogram within recommended guidelines. These barriers and additional survey results will be discussed.