Compliance with guidelines for mammography screening

Abstract

The health belief model was used to identify potential variables related to intention or compliance with mammography guidelines. Scales to measure independent and dependent variables were developed from previous research and assessed for validity and reliability. A probability sample of women 35 and older (x = 50) who resided in a large metropolitan area and surrounding counties (n = 322) participated in in-home interviews. Intent to complete mammography was related to having a family history of breast cancer, perceived barriers to mammography, and perceived control over breast cancer. Compliance with mammography was influenced by general health motivation and perceived susceptibility to and seriousness of breast cancer, benefits, and control over breast cancer. In addition, knowledge about breast cancer and breast cancer detection, age, having a health care provider suggest mammography, having symptoms of breast cancer, and socioeconomic status were significantly related to actual compliance with mammography.