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A breast cancer screening program in a community hospital
M E Dodds1, S L Dowd, M Mitchell-Beren
1Department of Heme-Oncology, Hurley Medical Center, Flint, Michigan 48502.
Journal of Community Health
|October 1, 1991
Summary
This study developed a breast cancer screening program, significantly increasing women's awareness and breast self-examination skills. The program highlighted the need for targeted outreach to underserved populations for cancer screening.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Public Health
- Preventive Medicine
Background:
- Breast cancer screening remains underutilized in the U.S., despite national goals for increased utilization.
- The American Cancer Society seeks programs targeting asymptomatic and economically disadvantaged women.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop, implement, and evaluate a community-based breast cancer screening program.
- To assess the program's impact on women's awareness and screening practices.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive breast cancer screening program was implemented in a community setting.
- An educational component was included, followed by post-testing and skills demonstration.
- Participant demographics, including income and insurance status, were collected.
Main Results:
- One case of infiltrating ductal carcinoma was detected among 144 participants.
- Significant increase (p < 0.01) in breast cancer awareness was observed post-education.
- 100% of women could demonstrate breast self-examination after the educational intervention.
Conclusions:
- The program effectively improved breast cancer awareness and self-examination skills in the community.
- Findings underscore the need for outreach programs to address unmet cancer needs of economically disadvantaged women.
- The study provides insights for future community-based breast cancer screening initiatives.