Breast Cancer Preventive Behaviors Research Articles

Association between health literacy and adopting preventive behaviors of breast cancer in Iran.

BACKGROUND:Health literacy plays an important role in adopting preventive behaviors. Considering the relatively high prevalence of breast cancer in women, this study aimed to assess the association between health literacy and adopting the preventive behavior of breast cancer in Iran.METHODS:This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study, in which 375 female students at Imam Khomeini International University in Qazvin in the academic year of 2018–2019 were selected through a stratified random sampling method. Demographic and background questionnaire, the standard questionnaire of Health Literacy for Iranian Adults in addition to another questionnaire for measuring breast cancer preventive behaviors, were used for collecting data. Data were analyzed using SPSS 22 using descriptive statistics and logistic regression.RESULTS:The mean of the breast cancer preventive behaviors and health literacy were 8.92 ± 1.82 out of 16 and 70.80 ± 12.49 out of 100. Regression results showed that there was a statistically significant association between the adoption of breast cancer preventive behaviors and physical activity (P < 0.001) and health literacy (P < 0.018). Accordingly, the chance for adopting the preventive behaviors in good level among students with rare and without physical activity was 0.105 and 0.100 times, respectively, more than students who had been doing physical activity on a daily basis. Moreover, the same chance among students with adequate and very adequate health literacy was 1.802 and 2.169 times more than students with inadequate health literacy.CONCLUSION:The results indicated that students with lower levels of health literacy and less physical activity had shown less tendency to adopt preventive behaviors of breast cancer. Therefore, special attention should be paid to health literacy (HL), particularly physical activity, application of health information, and assessment in students when designing educational programs to prevent breast cancer.

The role of explanatory models of breast cancer in breast cancer prevention behaviors among Arab-Israeli physicians and laywomen.

'Explanatory Models' (EMs) are frameworks through which individuals and groups understand diseases, are influenced by cultural and religious perceptions of health and illness, and influence both physicians and patients' behaviors. To examine the role of EMs of illness (cancer-related perceptions) in physicians' and laywomen's behaviors (decision to recommend undergoing regular mammography, adhering to mammography) in the context of a traditional-religious society, that is, the Arab society in Israel. Two combined samples were drawn: a representative sample of 146 Arab physicians who serve the Arab population and a sample composed of 290 Arab women, aged 50-70 years, representative of the main Arab groups residing in the north and center of Israel (Muslims, Christians) were each randomly sampled (cluster sampling). All respondents completed a closed-ended questionnaire. Women held more cultural cancer-related beliefs and fatalistic beliefs than physicians. Physicians attributed more access barriers to screening as well as fear of radiation to women patients and lower social barriers to screening, compared with the women's community sample. Higher fatalistic beliefs among women hindered the probability of adherence to mammography; physicians with higher fatalistic beliefs were less likely to recommend mammography. The role of cultural perceptions needs to be particularly emphasized. In addition to understanding the patients' perceptions of illness, physicians must also reflect on the social, cultural, and psychological factors that shape their decision to recommend undergoing regular mammography.

Development and Psychometric Evaluation of a Protection Motivation Theory–Based Scale Assessing the Adherence of Iranian Women Breast Cancer Prevention Behaviors

Development and Psychometric Evaluation of a Protection Motivation Theory–Based Scale Assessing the Adherence of Iranian Women Breast Cancer Prevention Behaviors

Effect of Awareness and Perceived Self-Efficacy on Breast Cancer Preventive Behaviors in Women; A Case Study of Neyshabur City

Effect of Awareness and Perceived Self-Efficacy on Breast Cancer Preventive Behaviors in Women; A Case Study of Neyshabur City

New Educational Model to Promote Breast Cancer-Preventive Behaviors (ASSISTS): Development and First Evaluation.

The prevalence of breast cancer in Iran has increased. An effective approach to decrease the burden of breast cancer is prevention. The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate an educational model, called the ASSISTS, for promoting breast cancer-preventive behaviors in women. A multiphase method was used to develop the model designed to promote breast cancer prevention behaviors. A conceptual model was generated based on a secondary analysis of qualitative data. Then, a structural equation model technique was used to test the relationships among the model constructs. The analysis revealed that 7 constructs could be extracted, namely, perceived social support, attitude, motivation, self-efficacy, information seeking, stress management, and self-care. Based on these constructs, a conceptual model was built and tested using structural equation modeling. The model fit was good, and the model confirmed significant relationships among the 7 constructs of breast cancer prevention. Findings revealed that self-care behavior and stress management are influenced directly by attitude, motivation, self-efficacy, information seeking, and social support. In addition, women seek more information when they are motivated, have more self-efficacy, have a more positive attitude toward breast cancer prevention, and experience more social support. Cancer nurses can be at the forefront of breast cancer prevention. Because they can play a pivotal role in providing information, they can reduce women's stress and increase their self-care behavior. In addition, their social support can positively influence Iranian women's attitude, motivation, and self-care behavior. Furthermore, implementing educational programs based on this model might encourage women to practice preventive behaviors.

Erratum to: development and psychometric testing of a new instrument to measure factors influencing women's breast cancer prevention behaviors (ASSISTS).

Erratum to: development and psychometric testing of a new instrument to measure factors influencing women's breast cancer prevention behaviors (ASSISTS).

Result of randomized control trial to increase breast health awareness among young females in Malaysia.

BackgroundBreast cancer is the most common cancer and the second principal cause of cancer deaths in women worldwide as well as in Malaysia. Breast self-examination (BSE) has a role in raising breast cancer awareness among women and educational programs play an important role in breast cancer preventive behavior. The aim of this study is to develop, implement and evaluate the effectiveness of Breast Health Awareness program based on health belief model on knowledge of breast cancer and breast-selfexamination and BSE practice among female students in Malaysia.MethodsA single-blind randomized controlled trial was carried out among 370 female undergraduate students from January 2011 to April 2012 in two selected public universities in Malaysia. Participants were randomized to either the intervention group or the control group. The educational program was delivered to the intervention group. The outcome measures were assessed at baseline, 6, and 12 months after implementing the health educational program. Chi-square, independent samples t-test and two-way repeated measures ANOVA (GLM) were conducted in the course of the data analyses.ResultsMean scores of knowledge on breast cancer (p<0.003), knowledge on breast self examination (p<0.001), benefits of BSE (p<0.00), barrier of BSE (0.01) and confidence of BSE practice (p<0.00) in the intervention group had significant differences in comparison with those of the control group 6 and 12 months after the intervention. Also, among those who never practiced BSE at baseline, frequency of BSE practice increased 6 and 12 months after the intervention (p<0.05).ConclusionThe Breast Health Awareness program based on health the belief model had a positive effect on knowledge of breast cancer and breast self-examination and practice of BSE among females in Malaysia.Trial registrationThe ANZCTR clinical trial registry (ACTRN12616000831482), retrospectively registered on Jun 23, 2016 in ANZCTR.org.au.

Development and psychometric testing of a new instrument to measure factors influencing women's breast cancer prevention behaviors (ASSISTS).

BackgroundBreast cancer preventive behaviors have an extreme effect on women’s health. Despite the benefits of preventive behaviors regarding breast cancer, they have not been implemented as routine care for healthy women. To assess this health issue, a reliable and valid scale is needed. The aim of the present study is to develop and examine the psychometric properties of a new scale, called the ASSISTS, in order to identify factors that affect women’s breast cancer prevention behaviors.MethodsA multi-phase instrument development method was performed to develop the questionnaire from February 2012 to September 2014. The item pool was generated based on secondary analyses of previous qualitative data. Then, content and face validity were applied to provide a pre-final version of the scale. The scale validation was conducted with a sample of women recruited from health centers affiliated with Tehran University of Medical Sciences. The construct validity (both exploratory and confirmatory), convergent validity, discriminate validity, internal consistency reliability and test-retest analysis of the questionnaire were tested.ResultsFifty-eight items were initially extracted from the secondary analysis of previous qualitative data. After content validity, this was reduced to 49 items. The exploratory factor analysis revealed seven factors (Attitude, supportive systems, self-efficacy, information seeking, stress management, stimulant and self-care) containing 33 items that jointly accounted for 60.62 % of the observed variance. The confirmatory factor analysis showed a model with appropriate fitness for the data. The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient for the subscales ranged from 0.68 to 0.85, and the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) ranged from 0.71 to 0.98; which is well above the acceptable thresholds.ConclusionThe findings showed that the designed questionnaire was a valid and reliable instrument for assessing factors affecting women’s breast cancer prevention behaviors that can be used both in practice and in future studies.

Breast Cancer Knowledge and Preventive Behavior Among Filipino Women in a Rural Area: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: The incidence and mortality rates of breast cancer are high among Filipino women. The lack of knowledge on preventive behavior and early detection related to breast cancer is considered a reason. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the association between knowledge about breast cancer and selected sociodemographic characteristics, daily life factors, reproductive factors, and perceived breast cancer risk factors. Patients and Methods: This study used a cross-sectional design. The study population consisted of 527 women. Interviews were conducted by the investigators. The contents of the questionnaire collected basic characteristics of the respondents, including their sociodemographic profiles, their knowledge of breast cancer risk factors, preventive behaviors, early detection, and their daily life and reproductive factors. Predictor variables were analyzed using a Chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, and a t-test. Multivariate logistic regression was applied for any significant differences (P < 0.005) among the predictor variables. One-way ANOVA and Tukey’s HDS were used to evaluate the association between education level and reproductive factors. Results: Less than half of the women (42.7%) had knowledge on breast cancer risk factors, and an equivalent number had knowledge on breast cancer symptoms. Women with higher educational levels were noted to give birth to their first child at a significantly older age and have a significantly lower number of childbirths. Multivariate logistic regression demonstrated that body mass index, education history, knowledge about symptoms, knowing how to conduct a breast self-examination, family history of cancer, and passive smoking could predict breast cancer knowledge. Conclusions: Women who were aware of risk factors for breast cancer possessed a higher education level and had knowledge of the association of risk factors with preventive behaviors and early detection. However, a minority of women (42.7%) knew enough about breast cancer, preventive behaviors, and what actions to take for early detection.

Establishment of novel rat models for premalignant breast disease

Background Breast cancer has become one of the most common malignant tumors among females over the past several years. Breast carcinogenesis is a continuous process, which is featured by the normal epithelium progressing to premalignant lesions and then to invasive breast cancer (IBC). Targeting premalignant lesions is an effective strategy to prevent breast cancer. The establishment of animal models is critical to study the mechanisms of breast carcinogenesis, which will facilitate research on breast cancer prevention and drug behaviors. In this study, we established a feasible chemically-induced rat model of premalignant breast cancer. Methods Following the administration of the drugs (carcinogen, estrogen, and progestogen) to Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, tumors or suspicious tumors were identified by palpation or ultrasound imaging, and were surgically excised for pathological evaluation. A series of four consecutive steps were carried out in order to determine the carcinogen: 7,12-dimethylbenzaanthracene (DMBA) or 1-methyl-1-nitrosourea, the route of carcinogen administration, the administration period of estrogen and progestogen, and the DMBA dosage. Results Stable premalignant lesions can be induced in SD rats on administration of DMBA (15 mg/kg, administered three times) followed by administration of female hormones 5-day cycle. Results were confirmed by ultrasound and palpation. Conclusion Under the premise of drug dose and cycle, DMBA combined with estrogen and progestogen can be used as a SD rat model for breast premalignant lesions.

Breast self examination and mammography in cancer screening: women health protective behavior.

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the leading causes of death among women. Secondary prevention may enable early detection, but this is suboptimal among all Iranian women. This was a descriptive, analytic cross sectional study on 385 women 35 years old or more with no history of BC. Participants were selected by simple randomized method and were assessed through a two-part self-administered questionnaire and a self-examination checklist with content validity and test-re-test reliability. 14.8% of women carried out breast self examination (BSE). Among them 5.7% was done in adequate timing and 9.4% performed it on a regular basis. The average age of BSE onset was 20.1 ± 7.6 and mean of Score was 6.25 ± 2.26 (2-11). 2.3% of participants performed BSE poorly, 7.5% fairly and 1.6% performed it well. 25.84% of samples had a history of mammography that 13% of whom received it as a result of prescription. The average age for mammography was 36 ± 7.2 (20-50) years and the frequency of mammography was 1.8 ± 1.4 (1-8) of times. Due to the low percentage of breast cancer preventive behaviors, in this study knowledge towards breast cancer was also measured because they are factors that are crucial in performance. The results highlight the need to educate Iranian women to recognize the risk factors to promote early detection of breast cancer. Creation of health behavioral by focused educational programs might cause decrease of breast cancer prevalence.

Survey of the Impact of Using Text Messaging Educational Method on Breast Self Examination in Female Students of None-medical Fields In 2013

Purpose: Short text messaging is the easiest and cheapest way to promote knowledge level in the society which provides easy access to an extent layer of audience and a two way connection between users and educational sources in a short time and in any place. Present study has been done with the purpose of evaluating the impact of using text messages as an educational tool on breast self examination education in female students of none-medical fields in 2013. Method: in a clinical trial 54 female students from Tarbiat Modarres dormitories were selected by accidental sampling and then were educated about breast cancer, its control ways and breast self examination by 28 educational text messages at 9 AM every day for 1 moth. Data collection tool was a questionnaire designed by the researcher which was used as a pre-test and then 3 months after education as a post test and the quality of doing breast self examination was evaluated by an operational test and check list. Data analysis was done with SPSS 20 software and a parametric statistical test (paired T-test) in a significant level of p<0.05. Findings: There is a significant difference in knowledge, attitude and performance points (KAP) about breast self examination before and after educational text messaging intervention (p = 0.001). Text messaging with 47.2% was selected as the first priority by the samples. Results: text messaging educational method is effective in promotion of breast cancer preventive behaviors. The amount of KAP in female students about breast self examination was effectively elevated after text message education. We suggest use of this educational method in health education programs especially in breast cancer controlling for maintaining women’s health and hygiene.

Breast cancer-preventive behaviors: exploring Iranian women’s experiences

BackgroundBreast cancer-preventive behaviors are critical for community and women’s health. Although many studies have addressed women’s knowledge and attitudes toward breast cancer, little information is available about their experiences of breast cancer preventive behaviors. This study aimed to explore the experiences of Iranian women regarding preventive behaviors.MethodsThis was a qualitative study. A sample of Iranian women aged 30 years and over was selected purposefully. Data collected through focus group and semi-structured audiotaped interviews and were analyzed by conventional content analysis.ResultsThe following five main themes emerged from the analysis: attitude toward breast cancer and preventive behaviors, stress management, healthy lifestyle, perceived social support and individual/environmental barriers. The findings showed that women were highly motivated to preventive behaviors of breast cancer but faced considerable challenges.ConclusionsThe findings indicated that increased awareness, positive attitudes, stronger motivational factors, and fewer barriers toward preventive behaviors are most important parameters that might encourage women to practice breast cancer-preventive behaviors.

Effect of education on preventive behaviors of breast cancer in female teachers of guidance schools of Zahedan city based on health belief model.

Background:Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in females. Methods of screening are the best among early detection methods. The goal of this study is effect of education on preventive behaviors of breast cancer in female teachers of guidance schools of Zahedan city based on health belief modelMaterials and Methods:This study was a semi-experimental, a kind of case-control research. This study was carried on 240 female teachers in guidance schools, Zahedan city, in 2011-2012 academic years with multi-stage sampling. Data collection tool was a questionnaire that was used after confirmation of validity and reliability. Data were collected with questionnaire after analysis, educational intervention with lecture, view video, group discussion, question and answer performed. Two month after intervention, secondary evaluation was performed. Collected data with SPSS software and appropriate statistical tests like: Paired t-test, independent t-test, regression analysis, Chi-square were analyzed.Results:Persons mean age in this study was 39.40(±7.4) years. In awareness item and health belief model constructs (awareness, perceived susceptibility, perceived seriousness, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, self-efficiency, behavior) and also practice, paired t-test showed significant difference among before and after education (P > 0.0001). In two groups based on Chi-square in level of education and married status, there were no significant differences. Also, regression analysis outcomes showed that perceived barriers had the most effect on behavior, and this construct could be predictor of preventive behaviors from breast cancer.Conclusions:The findings of this study could conclude that educational programs designed based on the health belief model have significant impact on improving preventive treatment of breast cancer. Given the fact that Iran has a very high incidence of breast cancer, since Iranian women's awareness level and performance specially research samples according to educational level (associate degree and higher) and employment conditions as model for today girls and future mothers in breast cancer screening before educational intervention was very low. So, due to need, increasing women's awareness in health belief model framework to promote preventive behaviors is recommended.

Breast cancer screening utilization among Eastern European immigrant women worldwide: a systematic literature review and a focus on psychosocial barriers

Many countries host growing Eastern European immigrant communities whose breast cancer preventive behaviors are largely unknown. Thus, we aimed to synthesize current evidence regarding secondary prevention via breast cancer screening utilized by that population. All observational, general population studies on breast cancer screening with Eastern European immigrant women and without any country, language, or age restrictions were identified. Screening modalities included breast self-examination, clinical breast examination, and mammography. The selected 30 studies were published between 1996 and 2013 and came from Australia, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Israel, the Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, the UK, and the USA. The reported prevalence of monthly breast self-examination was 0-48%; for yearly clinical breast examination 27-54%; and for biennial mammography 0-71%. The substantial methodologic heterogeneity prevented a meta-analysis. Nonetheless, irrespective of host country, healthcare access, or educational level, the findings consistently indicated that Eastern European immigrant women underutilize breast cancer screening largely because of insufficient knowledge about early detection and an external locus of control regarding decision making in health matters. This is a vulnerable population for whom the implementation of culturally tailored breast cancer screening programs is needed. As with other underscreened immigrant/minority groups, Eastern European women's inadequate engagement in prevention is troublesome as it points to susceptibility not only to cancer but also to other serious conditions for which personal action and responsibility are critical.

Breast Cancer Prevention Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors Among College Women and Mother–Daughter Communication

Although breast cancer prevention targets mostly women ages 40 and older, little is known about breast cancer prevention for young women and mother's advice. The purpose of this study was to examine breast cancer prevention knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors among college women and mother-daughter communication. Hispanic and non-Hispanic students at a southwestern university completed a breast cancer prevention survey with items for mother's advice, breast self-awareness and risk reduction knowledge, self-efficacy, susceptibility, family history, provider breast self-exam (BSE) recommendation, peer norms, BSE practice, and demographics. An openended item was also used to elicit types of mother's advice. Logistic regression was used to assess predictors for receiving mother's advice for breast cancer prevention and BSE practice. Self-reported data using a survey were obtained from 546 college women with a mean age of 23.3 (SD = 7.75). Nearly 36 % received mothers' advice and 55 % conducted BSE. Predictors for receiving mother's advice were age, self-efficacy, and family history of breast cancer. Predictors for BSE practice were mother's advice, age, self-efficacy, and provider BSE recommendation. Family history of breast cancer and knowledge were not significant predictors for BSE practice. Findings support the need for clinicians, community health educators, and mothers to provide breast cancer prevention education targeting college women.

Abstract A07: Lifestyle modifications and use of complementary and alternative medicine in relation to perceived and model-based breast cancer risk among women at high risk of developing breast cancer

Abstract Background: Among women at high risk of breast cancer, there are limited data on the prevalence of use of lifestyle modifications and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for the purpose of breast cancer prevention. We examined use of lifestyle modifications and CAM in a diverse cohort of women at high breast cancer risk, including associations between the behaviors and perceived and model-based risk. Methods: We used cross-sectional data from 810 non-Hispanic white and Hispanic women with no personal history of breast cancer enrolled in the Metropolitan New York Registry (MNYR) of Breast Cancer Families, one of six international sites of the National Cancer Institute's Breast Cancer Family Registry. Self-reported current lifestyle modifications (dietary change, exercise), use of CAM (multivitamins, herbal supplements, other dietary supplements, and prayer), perceived breast cancer risk, and breast cancer risk factors were assessed via a computer assisted telephone interview. The International Breast Cancer Intervention Study (IBIS) model, a validated breast cancer risk model for high-risk women, was used to estimate 10-year breast cancer risk. Relative risk regression models were used to examine associations between use of lifestyle modifications and CAM and perceived and model-based risk. Results: The large majority of the sample (92.8%) reported current use of ≥1 lifestyle modification or CAM modality, and 16.4% reported using ≥1 specifically for breast cancer prevention. Among all women, 46.1 % used dietary change, 73.0% used exercise, 55.9% use multivitamins, 17.8% used herbal supplements, 51.5% used dietary supplements, and 44.7% used prayer. Non-Hispanic whites were more likely than Hispanics to use dietary change (p&amp;lt;0.001), exercise (p=0.002), other supplements (p=0.05), and prayer (p&amp;lt;0.001) specifically for breast cancer prevention. Hispanics were more likely than non-Hispanic whites to perceive their risk of breast cancer to be lower than the risk in the general population (p&amp;lt;0.0001). Model-based risk was significantly higher in non-Hispanic whites (7.1% ± 7.9% vs. 5.1% ± 6.5%; p&amp;lt;0.0001). In multivariable analyses, below average perceived risk of breast cancer was associated with prayer (RR: 1.43; 95% CI: 1.05, 1.96) and with the use of a higher number of lifestyle modifications and/or CAM modalities (RR: 1.23; 95% CI: 1.05-1.45) among non-Hispanic whites. Among Hispanics only, higher model-based risk was associated with current exercise (RR: 1.46; 95% CI: 1.02, 2.09). There was no association between perceived risk and current exercise, dietary change, and the use of multivitamins, herbal supplements or other supplements. Model-based risk did not appear to be a significant predictor of dietary change or use of herbal supplements, other supplements, or prayer. Conclusions: Use of lifestyle modifications and CAM modalities is common among women at high risk for breast cancer, but patterns of use differed by ethnicity. Compared to non-Hispanic whites, Hispanic women were less likely to engage in breast cancer prevention behaviors, including dietary change and exercise, and were less likely to accurately perceive their breast cancer risk. Neither perceived risk nor model-based risk appear to be strong predictors of these behaviors. Future research should investigate motivations for the use of these modalities and awareness of evidence-based recommendations among women at high risk of breast cancer. Citation Format: Cristina Valdovinos, Mary Beth Terry, Yuyan Liao, Ann Johnston, Heather Greenlee. Lifestyle modifications and use of complementary and alternative medicine in relation to perceived and model-based breast cancer risk among women at high risk of developing breast cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Eleventh Annual AACR International Conference on Frontiers in Cancer Prevention Research; 2012 Oct 16-19; Anaheim, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Prev Res 2012;5(11 Suppl):Abstract nr A07.

Abstract 4452: Mother-daughter communication and breast cancer prevention knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors between Hispanic and non-Hispanic college women

Abstract Background: Although breast cancer prevention programs focus primarily on women ages 40 and older, little is known about breast cancer prevention awareness among young women. Cancer communication is essential for early detection and treatment for Hispanic and non-Hispanic women. Data trends show Hispanic women are more likely to be diagnosed with more advanced stages of breast cancer at an early age. Aim: The purpose of this exploratory study is to examine mother-daughter communication and breast cancer prevention knowledge, attitudes, and breast self-examination (BSE) behaviors between Hispanic and non-Hispanic college women. Method: Using a cross sectional study design, a convenience sample of college women ages 18 and older were surveyed in Fall 2010 at a southwestern university. Survey items were developed using the Health Belief Model framework. An open-ended item was included to elicit descriptions of breast cancer prevention advice received from their mothers. Results: Self-reported data were obtained from 71 college women (44% Hispanic and 56% non-Hispanic) ages 18 to 49 with a mean age of 22.6 (SD = 5.6). Overall, 33% received mother-daughter communication about breast cancer prevention, 80% received a provider's recommendation to conduct BSE, and 62% conducted BSE. Nearly 74% knew someone with breast cancer. Bivariate analysis revealed no significant differences for mother-daughter communication, knowledge, and self-efficacy for breast cancer prevention. In content analysis, only non-Hispanic college women received advice from their mothers about modifiable risk factors for breast cancer prevention. Hispanic college women (84%) were more likely compared to non-Hispanic women (63%) to have friends who supported BSE (p=.023). In addition, Hispanic college women (61%) were more likely compared to non-Hispanic women (38%) to seek online breast cancer information (p=.023). Conclusion: Our preliminary findings support the need for college educational breast cancer prevention programs including risk factors. Future research is suggested with a larger sample size to validate findings as well as to explore Internet use to seek quality online health information with an emphasis on breast cancer prevention information. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4452. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-4452

The influence of psycho-social factors on participation levels in community-based breast cancer prevention programs in Tehran, Iran.

Background:Although significant consideration has been devoted to women participation in breast cancer prevention programs, our understanding about the psychosocial factors which influence participation remains incomplete.Method:The study applied a quantitative approach based on the cross-sectional survey design and multistage cluster random sampling. A total of 400 women aged 35-69 years, were surveyed at 4 obstetric and gynecologic clinics affiliated to Tehran University of Medical Sciences in Tehran: the participation levels of 86 women who have had a mammogram were analyzed based on their self-efficacy, belief, social influence, and barriers concerning mammography utilization.Results:Consistent with the study framework, in bivariate analysis, the higher level of women’s participation in breast cancer prevention programs was significantly related to more positive belief about mammography (p< .05), greater social influence on mammography (p< .01) and fewer barriers to mammography (p< .01). Self efficacy (p= .114) was not significantly related to the higher level of participation.Conclusion:Results suggest that women’s participation levels in breast cancer prevention programs might be associated with the specific psychosocial factors on breast cancer preventive behavior such as mammography screening.

Evaluating the Health Belief Model: A critical review of studies predicting mammographic and pap screening

Conclusions from empirical research employing the Health Belief Model (HBM) to investigate breast and cervical cancer and women's preventive health behaviors have been inconsistent and sometimes addressed contradictory, leading scholars to question utility of the model. Therefore we address utility of the HBM by conducting a comprehensive literature review. Using 10 electronic databases, we identified 39 published studies applying the HBM to mammographic and/or Papanicolaou (pap) screening. Overall, we found strongest support for the HBM's perceived benefit and barrier constructs, compared to other constructs. Weakest support was found for the HBM's perceptions of the disease construct. More recently collected data from nationally representative and ethnically/racially diverse samples, as well as more sophisticated methodological approaches are necessary to further evaluate the HBM.