Ten-year changes in breast cancer knowledge, attitudes, and practices in Native Hawaiian women

Compared to women in other ethnic groups, Native Hawaiian women have the highest breast cancer mortality rates in the state of Hawai'i. Nationally, the five-year relative survival rate for Native Hawaiian women is 9% shorter than for Caucasians and all races. This poor outcome has been attributed, in part, to late-stage detection of cancer in Native Hawaiians, and data suggest that breast cancer screening rates for Native Hawaiian women are relatively low. This study examined breast cancer knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) among Native Hawaiian women, reached through their friendship, community, and organizational networks. Response to an initial KAP survey in 1989-1990 was rewarded by a voucher for a free mammogram. Participation in both the survey (n = 903) and mammogram offer (n = 496) was high. The initial, Time 1 participants were resurveyed in 1999-2000, yielding a sample of 117 women who completed KAP surveys at both time points. After 10 years, changes in women's knowledge and attitudes were minimal. However, remarkable improvements in breast health practices were seen, with 62% of women reporting compliance with American Cancer Society guidelines for mammogram screening in 1999-2000, compared to only 14% in 1989-1990. Findings suggest that breast health practices can be improved through appropriate outreach; encouragement by health professionals; and policies and programs that increase access and affordability.