Predicting reattendance in the second round of the UK National Breast Screening Programme: a prospective 3-year longitudinal analysis

Abstract

In a prospective questionnaire study published in 1993, we examined the predictors of attendance for X-ray mammography in the first round of the UK National Breast Screening Programme. The present paper follows up the same women 3 years later to find out how many reattended in the second round and which of our original measures would predict reattendance. Attendance in the second round was slightly higher than in the first (82% against 79%), and 93% of first round attenders reattended. Reattendance was predicted by initial demographic characteristics, health behaviours and attitudes, but not by responses to the original screen. The main reasons for non-attendance were practical difficulties, experiences of previous screens, and misgivings about screening. We conclude that first time attendance is predicted by social and psychological characteristics — what women bring to screening — and reattendance is a matter of routine. If those who are unsure can be persuaded to attend once, they are likely to attend again.