Factors Influencing Early Detection Of Breast Cancer In African American Women

African American women are more likely to have breast cancer diagnosed at a later stage than Caucasian women and have a five-year death rate 1.5 times greater than Caucasian women. To examine factors influencing early detection, a convenience sample of 39 African American women 50 years of age and older was selected from two local Baptist churches in eastern North Carolina. Eligibility criteria included ability to read and write in English and no prior or present diagnosis of breast cancer. Instruments used for the collection of data included Nola Pender's "Perceived Benefits and Barriers Scale" and a researcher-prepared tool to gather demographic data from the participants. Results: Benefits included knowing how often to receive a mammogram (89%), giving a sense of accomplishment (100%), health insurance pays for the mammogram (92%), breast cancer can be detected at an earlier stage by receiving regular mammograms (74%), and a belief that mammograms can detect cancer (80%). Barriers identified were that receiving a mammogram takes too much time (85%), it causes discomfort (90%), and it was not an enjoyable experience (95%). Although 74% indicated that breast cancer can be detected at an earlier stage by receiving regular mammograms, only 54% indicated they knew the purpose of a mammogram and 49% knew where to go for a mammogram. By incorporating knowledge of the perceived barriers and benefits to receiving a mammogram, health care professionals can better plan educational programs to encourage the use of mammogram screening, and better plan for mobile screening sites within the community.