Impact of breast cancer screening intervention on Korean-American women in Maryland

Abstract

Background: Adherence to mammography guidelines among Korean-American women (KAW) is lower than that of Caucasian-Americans, and disparities in breast cancer screening related to lack of English proficiency is under-researched. This study examined the impact of a breast cancer intervention on intentions to use mammography among KAW.

Methods: Face-to-face pre-intervention surveys were conducted in control (n=95) and intervention groups (n=105), and were followed by implementation of a breast cancer education program. At 6 months, both groups were re-interviewed by phone (92 control and 94 intervention participants). Generalized estimating equation (GEE) analysis was used to assess the intervention effect before and after the breast cancer educational program.

Results: The intervention effect was statistically significant. Women in the intervention reported 2.96 times greater posttest intentions to have mammogram than those in the control group (95% CI, 1.13-7.66). Prior intentions, age, and positive attitudes toward mammography were associated with follow-up intentions to have a mammogram.

Conclusion: This culturally and linguistically tailored educational intervention was effective in increasing breast cancer awareness in a non-English speaking population.