Factors influencing breast cancer screening and risk assessment among young African American women: An integrative review of the literature

Abstract

Purpose: This integrative review was conducted to examine factors that influence mammography screening and use of cancer genetic services among younger African American women at increased risk for developing breast cancer.

Data sources: Research articles were identified using PubMed, CINAHL, PsychINFO, and Cochrane library to find studies published from 2003 to 2013.

Conclusions: Findings from this review indicate that while younger African American women receive mammograms more often than the general population, they are not being referred for genetic testing when appropriate. This is a major concern because African American women tend to experience more aggressive forms of breast cancer at an earlier age than the general population; it is imperative that they undergo genetic testing for optimal management of their breast cancer risk.

Implications for practice: Nurse practitioners have a significant role in breast cancer screening and genetic testing of at-risk women, particularly in identifying and referring young women for testing. Further communication efforts are needed to improve young women's knowledge of breast cancer risk and the benefits of genetic testing. Reducing barriers to breast healthcare services requires nursing efforts that focus on populations at greatest risk for poor health outcomes.

Keywords: Breast health; breast disease; genetics; predictors; review; screening.