Predictors of self-reported mammography screening among women aged 18 years and over in the United States: Findings from the 2012 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS)

Background: According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the second most common newly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death among women in the US. The risk of death from breast cancer can be reduced by regular mammography screening. Objective: To identify factors associated with self-reported mammography screening among women aged 18 years and over in the United States.

Methods: Data were obtained and analyzed from the 2012 BRFSS. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for factors associated with mammography screening. Analyses were conducted using SAS version 9.3.

Results: Of the 216,850 women who reported mammography screening, 44% were non-Hispanic White; 47% were in the age group 45-64 years; and 39% lived in South. Factors associated with lower odds of mammography screening included being non-Hispanic White (AOR= 0.60; 95% CI=0.57, 0.63), Hispanic or Latino (AOR=0.68; 95% CI=0.63, 0.73), Asian (AOR= 0.42; 95% CI=0.36, 0.50), Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander (AOR=0.54; 95% CI=0.35,0.83), and American Indian or Alaska Native (AOR=0.80; 95% CI=0.70, 0.90),  respondents from the Midwest (AOR=0.91; 95% CI=0.87, 0.95) and West regions (AOR=0.77; 95% CI=0.74, 0.84). Factors associated with significantly higher odds of mammography screening included age ≥45 years, more than a high school education, higher income, and residence in the Northeast.

Conclusion: Socio-demographic factors and region of residence were predictors of self-reported mammography screening. Screening policies should focus on high-risk populations that are less likely to get mammography screening.