A Culturally Tailored Educational Program for Breast Cancer Risk Reduction in Korean Immigrant Women: A...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Promotion
• Cancer Prevention

Background:

• Breast cancer (BC) disproportionately affects women, with specific risk factors varying across ethnic groups.
• Korean American (KA) women face unique challenges in BC risk factor management and screening.
• Culturally tailored interventions are crucial for addressing health disparities in minority populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the Korean Breast Cancer Risk Reduction Program (KBCRRP) effectiveness.
• To reduce BC risk factors and increase screening among KA women.
• To assess changes in BMI, physical activity, diet, and BC screening behaviors.

Main Methods:

• A quasi-experimental design was used with an intervention group (IG) and a control group (CG).
• The KBCRRP involved in-person sessions and smartphone follow-up, focusing on weight, activity, diet, and screening.
• Data collected included anthropometric measurements and self-reported questionnaires over 24 weeks.

Main Results:

• The IG showed significant reductions in BMI and calorie intake at 8 and 24 weeks.
• The CG experienced an increase in waist-hip ratio.
• Mammography uptake improved in both groups, with no significant difference between them.

Conclusions:

• The KBCRRP demonstrated significant success in reducing key breast cancer risk factors among KA women.
• Despite a small sample size, the program's impact on risk factor reduction is noteworthy.
• Culturally tailored programs can be effective in improving cancer prevention behaviors in specific ethnic groups.