Preventative efforts to improve wellness in late life: Prevalence and predictors of cancer screening behavior

Life expectancy in US has extended 8 years in the past half century. One major public health contribution to this trend is the promotion of preventive measures. Multiple screening methods are available for the public to cope with lethal illnesses such as cancer, and, along with pursuing a healthy life-style, such screening is the best preventative approach in detecting illnesses in their earlier stages. The current study examined prevalence of and factors associated with multiple screening methods for multiple types of cancer (breast, cervix, prostate) among older adults. A survey conducted in rural counties in the Midwest focused on individuals aged 50 and older (M= 63.95, SD= 9.606; N=1.750). Approximately two thirds were female and 65.4% were married. Cervical and breast cancer screening behaviors for women and prostate cancer screening behaviors for men were examined. More than 90% of the female residents reported that they have had a mammogram. However, more than 20% of them had it more than a year ago, and only 72% reported performing self-exams. Three quarters of the male participants reported that they had a PSA test and a slightly more had a digital rectal exam. Multiple demographic, family history and life-style factors were associated with these screening behaviors for both men and women, which, in turn, can lead to profiling an at-risk population. Promotional efforts to educate these identified at-risk groups are discussed.