Breast Cancer Perceptions and Screening Behaviours Among Korean Women in Australia.

Abstract

Little is known about breast cancer screening behaviours among immigrant-Korean women in Australia. This study reported breast cancer screening status and whether demographic factors and cultural beliefs associated with their screening behaviours. A convenience sample of 258 Korean-Australian women completed the Korean version of the Breast Cancer Screening Beliefs Questionnaire. Only 16.9% paid special attention to their breasts monthly whereas 31.4% and 54.5% attended annual clinical breast examination and biannual mammograms respectively. Employment status and the length of stay in Australia are significant factors that affect women's breast cancer screening behaviour. Women who engaged in regular breast awareness and clinical breast examination had significantly higher scores on Knowledge of breast cancer subscale, whereas, those who attended mammography has significantly higher scores on Attitudes toward health check-ups. The research highlights that certain cultural and attitudinal issues are detrimental factors for breast cancer screening behaviour among Korean-Australian women.