Screening behaviors among African American women at high risk for breast cancer: do beliefs about god matter?

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
William N. Dudley, Professor Public Health Education (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/

Abstract: Purpose/Objectives: To examine the relationship between beliefs about God as a controlling force in health and adherence to breast cancer screening among high-risk African American women. Design: Cross-sectional cohort. Setting: In-person interviews in rural, southeastern Louisiana and telephone interviews conducted at the University of Utah. Sample: 52 females who were members of a large kindred with a BRCA1 mutation; no subjects had breast cancer. Methods: Survey through in-person or telephone interviews. Main Research Variables: Belief in God as a controlling agent over health measured by the God Locus of Health Control (GLHC) scale; screening behaviors measured by self-report. Adherence was based on consensus-approved recommendations for BRCA1 carriers or women at risk of being carriers. Findings: Bivariate analysis indicated that presence of a primary care provider and low GLHC scores were associated with seeking clinical breast examination (CBE) and mammography. With the variable "presence of a primary care provider" excluded, GLHC scores were inversely associated with seeking CBE and mammography. Conclusions: African American women at increased risk for breast cancer and with high GLHC scores may have a decreased inclination to adhere to CBE and mammography recommendations. Implications for Nursing: Assessing religious and spiritual beliefs and incorporating belief systems into education and counseling sessions may improve understanding and acceptance of presented material.

Additional Information

Publication
Oncology Nursing Forum, 29(5),835-43
Language: English
Date: 2002
Keywords
African American women, Breast cancer, Beliefs about God, Screening behaviors

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