Interventions to increase mammography rates among U.S. Latinas: a systematic review

Abstract

Background: In the United States, health disparities exist in mammography rates for Latinas compared with other ethnic groups. Additionally, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer deaths among Latina women. Increased mammography rates and earlier breast cancer diagnosis can decrease breast cancer fatality rates among Latina women.

Methods: The purpose of this systematic review was to contribute to the knowledge basis on breast cancer prevention for U.S. Latinas by determining the effectiveness of interventions designed to increase mammography rates among this population. Both experimental and quasi-experimental studies were included in the systematic review, and nine were located that met inclusion criteria.

Results: Odds ratios were calculated, and the overall effect indicated a low level of effectiveness.

Conclusions: Implications of findings for practice and research are discussed.