Related Experiment Videos
Using social support to promote breast self-examination performance
L M Lierman1, H M Young, G Powell-Cope
1School of Nursing, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta.
Oncology Nursing Forum
|July 1, 1994
Summary
Selected partners offered more support strategies and engagement for breast self-examination (BSE) adherence compared to peer partners. This suggests involving dedicated partners can improve consistent health maintenance practices.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Preventive Medicine
- Health Behavior
Background:
- Breast cancer screening adherence is crucial for early detection.
- Support systems can influence health behavior and self-care practices.
- Understanding partner roles in health maintenance is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare support strategies between selected partners and peer partners.
- To examine the impact of different support types on breast self-examination (BSE) adherence.
- To identify factors influencing the effectiveness of partner support in health regimens.
Main Methods:
- An experimental design was employed with 175 women and 53 partners.
- Participants were assigned to selected-partner support, peer-partner support, or no support groups.
- Support contracts were implemented for six months, with adherence assessed at 6 and 12 months.
Main Results:
- Selected partner dyads reported nearly three times more support strategies than peer partners.
- Women with selected partners experienced more frequent contact and greater comfort.
- Participants with selected partners showed a higher likelihood of continuing support post-study.
Conclusions:
- Selected partners demonstrated greater commitment and involvement in supporting breast self-examination (BSE).
- Reciprocity between selected partners and subjects requires further investigation.
- Nurses can guide women in selecting supportive partners for consistent health maintenance.