Breast Cancer Knowledge Among Amish and Mennonite Women

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Public Health
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Breast cancer is a leading cause of death for women in the USA, with higher rates in rural and Appalachian regions due to social determinants of health.
• Amish and Mennonite communities face lower mammography screening and higher breast cancer mortality, particularly among Amish women.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess breast cancer knowledge and beliefs about cancer causes among Amish and Mennonite women in Ohio.
• To identify potential disparities in understanding and beliefs between these two religious groups.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 473 Amish (348) and Mennonite (121) women across 26 women's health clinics in Ohio.
• Statistical analysis was used to compare knowledge scores and beliefs in cancer myths between the two groups.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in total breast cancer knowledge scores were found between Amish and Mennonite women (p=.007).
• Amish women demonstrated lower knowledge scores and held stronger beliefs in breast cancer myths (p=.006).
• Both groups accurately described cancer etiology but generally underestimated breast cancer risk.

Conclusions:

• Culturally sensitive health education programs are crucial for addressing numeracy and health literacy gaps in these communities.
• Targeted interventions, community engagement, and stakeholder partnerships are essential to reduce breast cancer disparities and improve outcomes.