Screening Mammography Behavior and Barriers in Singaporean Asian Women

Abstract

To determine attitudes of Singaporean women toward screening mammography and its potential barriers. The study included 208 cancer-free Asian women. Data about mammogram knowledge, motivators, barriers, and adherence to surveillance mammography were obtained. Only 37% underwent regular mammography. Lack of time (56.7%) and cost (54.3%) were the most commonly cited barriers. On multivariate analysis, being Chinese, having higher education, mammography knowledge, positive motivator scores, and receiving reminders were predictors to regular mammography. Participants were only willing to pay ∼US$24 for mammogram compared to subsidized cost of ∼US$40. Older Malays were less likely than Chinese and Indians to undergo regular mammography (p = .003). Surveillance adherence may be improved by lowering cost and increasing public education.