Social and cultural factors: Asian Indian women and mammography, Los Angeles and San Diego counties

Background: In California, Asian-Indian women are 3.5 times more likely to get breast cancer than women in India, yet there is a paucity of data regarding the health behaviors and attitudes of this group. We aim to address this research gap by analyzing factors that may be at play in this disproportionate burden of disease. Objective: To examine the social and cultural factors associated with breast cancer screening behaviors, knowledge, and attitudes among Asian-Indian women in Los Angeles and San Diego counties. Methods: Self-identified Asian-Indian women over 40 (n=27) were recruited to participate in this pilot study through a partnership with Saath USA which works with relevant cultural and religious centers. Surveys in Hindi and English were administered by a trained interviewer. A range of topics were addressed, including community health beliefs, social support and culture, and experience with mammograms. Results were analyzed via Microsoft Access. Results: 14.8% of participants listed breast cancer as a community health concern. Most women (88%) believed in the efficacy of mammograms. Associations were also found between the use of herbal medicine and English proficiency. 100% of women felt that friends and family would be supportive of their decision to get a mammogram. Conclusions: A set of important population-specific attitudes and beliefs were revealed, indicating the importance of cultural tailoring in future interventions. Preliminary findings confirm the need for continued epidemiological research.