Assessing a novel mobile mammography intervention in a medically underserved community: A community-based participatory approach

Lack of access to cancer screenings disproportionately impacts lower socioeconomic, minority communities, worsening existing disparities in cancer rates. Lawrence, MA was identified as a medically underserved community challenged by these disparities. In Spring 2007-2008, an academic-community partnership introduced mammography van services to increase access to screening in Lawrence. Process-evaluation data indicated this culturally-sensitive intervention was successful in increasing access for this medically underserved community. Presently, the mammography van has not returned, reinforcing the need to understand why the event was so successful to inform future interventions regarding mammography screening access.

In partnership with the YWCA of Greater Lawrence and the Lawrence Mayor's Health Task Force, a community-based participatory research pilot study was coordinated to assess specific strategies implemented in the intervention and the deeper impact of this experience for the women. A qualitative research design was developed, guided by CBPR principles. We jointly created a structure of community and academic Co-PIs, continual collaborative decision-making, and capacity building opportunities. The qualitative research design consists of semi-structured, bilingual interviews. The in-depth interviews are being conducted with a heterogeneous, purposive sample (n=15) of women targeted by the intervention. The aims of the study are to understand women's prior experiences in accessing mammography screenings, their experience with this specific intervention, and how participation in this intervention increased their ability to access breast cancer services. This CBPR project seeks to inform an effective and sustainable policy solution to ensure consistent mammography screening access for this vulnerable population.