Repeat Mammography Screening among Low-Income and Minority Women: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Regular mammography screening can reduce breast cancer mortality, yet low-income African American and Hispanic women underutilize mammography screening and are often diagnosed at a later stage, resulting in increased mortality. We used qualitative research methods to identify factors influencing regular breast cancer screening among African American and Hispanic women. Predisposing factors (including fear of mastectomy and lack of knowledge), enabling factors (including cost and social support) and a reinforcing factor were identified and categorized utilizing the PRECEDE framework. The study identified factors associated with the decision to complete regular mammography screening, and examined differences between African American and Hispanic women who participated in the interviews. Future research should seek to better understand the influence of family/friends, risk perception, and fatalistic beliefs on the decision to obtain regular mammograms.