Psychometric evaluation of Breast Health Behavior Questionnaire: Spanish version.

Area of Science:

• Health Behavior Research
• Psychometrics
• Cultural Adaptation of Instruments

Background:

• Breast health behaviors are crucial for early detection and prevention.
• Culturally sensitive instruments are needed to accurately assess health practices in diverse populations.
• The Breast Health Behavior Questionnaire (BHBQ) is a theory-based instrument designed to measure breast health behaviors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To test the psychometric properties of a Spanish, culturally sensitive, and theory-based instrument: the Breast Health Behavior Questionnaire (BHBQ).
• To evaluate the reliability and validity of the BHBQ for use with Hispanic women.
• To explore the instrument's potential for informing culturally grounded nursing interventions.

Main Methods:

• The BHBQ was translated into Spanish and back-translated, ensuring a third- to fourth-grade reading level.
• Pilot testing involved 70 Hispanic women, followed by a study sample of 40 Hispanic women.
• Content validity was assessed by a panel of experts; factor analysis and reliability testing (Cronbach's alpha) were conducted.

Main Results:

• Factor analysis revealed five dimensions explaining 71.82% of the variance.
• Three core components of self-regulation theory (schema, coping, appraisal criteria) were identified within the first three dimensions.
• The Spanish BHBQ demonstrated an internal consistency reliability coefficient of .7172.

Conclusions:

• The Spanish version of the Breast Health Behavior Questionnaire exhibits acceptable psychometric properties for this population.
• Further research is warranted to confirm its reliability and validity.
• The BHBQ may enhance understanding of Hispanic women's breast health behaviors and guide culturally tailored nursing interventions.