[Motivation to participate in mammography screening program for breast cancer]

The rates of incidence and mortality of breast cancer in Lithuania are increasing. The causal prophylaxis is unknown. The early mammography diagnosis improves results of treatment. The aim of the study is to investigate the motivation to participate in mammography screening program for breast cancer and to evaluate the relationship between these motives and women age, education, family history, personal income. Two hundred three women were interviewed about the motivation to participate in mammography screening program for breast cancer. The strength of motivation was estimated in parametric variable. It was attempted at evaluating the influence of age, education, family history and personal income on the level of motivation. Logistic analysis was used. Asymptotic women participated in mammography screening program for breast cancer. Complaints about their breasts as a motive to participate indicated only 31.8% of all women. After the survey it was observed that women understand the danger of breast cancer (86.1%) and believe that early diagnosis can protect from the poor outcome of the disease. Out of interviewed women, 85.3% (independently from their income, age, education and family history) think that it is essential for every woman to participate in mammography screening program for breast cancer. The majority of all surveyed women were informed about the program by their doctors. This motive became the main one to consult about breast cancer for 63% of women. The mass media made no significant impact to participate in mammography screening program for breast cancer.