Development of neighborhood networks in suburban areas for persuading women to adhere to breast cancer screening programs

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of the development of neighborhood networks in suburban areas for increasing adherence to breast cancer screening. Methods: This community-based intervention study was conducted among Iranian urban women aged 30 to 65 in 2021. The samples were chosen using a multi-stage random sampling process. Women were randomly assigned to intervention group (n=271) and control group (n=155). Following a three-month intervention period, participants were asked about their breast cancer screening behaviors to gauge the program’s success. Cognitive factors including perceived social support, perceived benefits and perceived barriers toward breast cancer screening, subjective norms, behavioral intention, and breast cancer screening behaviors were collected. The data were analyzed with SPSS statistical software version 21. Results: After the intervention, the results showed an improvement in the intention of referring to mammography centers, perceived benefits of early diagnosis of breast cancer, receiving social support, breast cancer screening behaviors, and a decrease in barriers to early diagnosis of breast cancer compared to the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: Harnessing the power of social networks alongside educational initiatives and strong community support can provide a safe, affordable, and effective means of boosting participation in Breast Cancer Screening (BCS).