Satisfaction with breast cancer screening and future screening participation

To measure satisfaction with an investigational breast cancer risk screening technique [electrical impedance scanning (EIS)] and to investigate the relationship between satisfaction and willingness to return for follow-up examination one year later.

2727 women volunteers (age 18-45 years, military healthcare beneficiaries) underwent an EIS exam [reported as "negative" (average risk) or "positive" (high risk)]; then they filled out a questionnaire assessing satisfaction with the procedure. One year later, women were invited for follow-up screening.

Satisfaction score was significantly related to EIS exam result (higher for women with negative exams), importance assigned to breast cancer screening, and family history of breast cancer. However, satisfaction was not related to scheduling a visit the following year for a follow-up examination. The only satisfaction component predicting return was satisfaction with exam reporting for participants with positive exam results. Return was related positively to age and race/ethnicity; older women and Hispanic women were more likely, while African American women were less likely, to return for follow-up.

Factors affecting breast cancer screening participation among younger women are diverse and complex. Further study and delineation of such factors is necessary to understand how best to tailor breast cancer education programs in young women.