Variables associated with breast self-examination among Chinese women

Asians are the fastest growing minorities in the U.S. To deliver culturally sensitive care is a significant challenge to the nursing profession. Research identifying variables associated with breast self-examination (BSE) in the U.S. has been conducted on Caucasian women, but little is known about Asian women. Based on the health belief model (HBM) and Bandura's social learning theory, the purpose of this study was to identify barriers to the practice of BSE among Chinese women. The Chinese women (n = 174; mean age, 31 years) were surveyed with a 38-item, five-point Likert scale developed by Champion, and Lauver and Angerame, as well as a six-step accuracy check. The factors included susceptibility; seriousness for breast cancer; general efficacy for BSE; specific efficacy of BSE for oneself; competence; comfort; and control. The results showed that only 15% of these Chinese women practiced BSE monthly, and 48% reported never having performed BSE. Approximately 50% had no opinion on perceived susceptibility to and seriousness of breast cancer; nevertheless, > 80% recognize the efficacy of BSE. Perceived competence significantly accounted for 10% of the variance on BSE frequency (p < 0.001). Implications for nursing interventions that foster competence in BSE for this population are suggested. The study also demonstrates culturally specific methodological considerations.