Breast Cancer and Mammography Screening: Knowledge, Beliefs and Predictors for Asian Immigrant Women Attending a Specialized Clinic in British Columbia, Canada

J Immigr Minor Health. 2016 Dec;18(6):1441-1448. doi: 10.1007/s10903-015-0332-8.

Abstract

Screening mammography (MMG) reduces breast cancer mortality; however, Asian immigrant women underutilize MMG. The Asian Women's Health Clinic (AWHC) was established to promote women's cancer screening amongst this population. This study evaluated the rate, and predictors, of MMG amongst women attending the AWHC. Women (N = 98) attending the AWHC completed a questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression evaluated rate and predictors of MMG. Most participants (87 %, n = 85) reported having had a mammogram. Significant MMG predictors were: lower perceived MMG barriers [lifetime: OR (CI) 1.19 (1.01-1.49); past 2 years: OR (CI) 1.11 (1.01-1.25)], and knowing someone with breast cancer [past year: OR (CI) 3.42 (1.25-9.85); past 2 years: OR (CI) 4.91 (1.32-2.13)]. Even amongst women using preventive medicine, 13 % report never having had a mammogram. More research is needed into innovative interventions, e.g. the AWHC, and breast cancer-related outcomes amongst Asian immigrant women.

Keywords: Asian; Breast cancer; Canada; Immigrant; Mammography.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Asian People / statistics & numerical data*
  • Breast Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Breast Neoplasms / ethnology*
  • Breast Neoplasms / prevention & control
  • British Columbia / epidemiology
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Early Detection of Cancer / statistics & numerical data*
  • Emigrants and Immigrants / statistics & numerical data*
  • Female
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice / ethnology
  • Humans
  • Logistic Models
  • Mammography / statistics & numerical data*
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care / ethnology
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Women's Health