A Model for Describing Low-Income African American Women's Participation in Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection and Screening

Abstract

The article reports on data derived from two investigations. In one study, focus groups were used with low-income African American women to pilot test a teaching module developed to support the inclusion of culturally relevant content on breast and cervical health in teaching low-income African American women. A second study using individual interviews was undertaken to illuminate the lived experience of low-income African American women who participated in breast and cervical cancer early detection and screening services. Data analysis of group and individual interviews were performed using phenomenology as a methodological approach. Findings from the two studies, combined with information identified in the theoretical and literary contexts, supported the development of an Afrocentric model that describes the lived experience and decision making practices of low-income African American women's participation in breast and cervical cancer early detection and screening services.