Factors distinguishing regular readers of breast cancer information in magazines

This study examined the differences between women who were regular and occasional readers of breast cancer information in magazines. Based on uses and gratifications theory and the Health Belief Model, women respondents (n = 366) were predicted to differentially expose themselves to information. A discriminant analysis showed that women who were regular readers reported greater fear, perceived vulnerability, general health concern, personal experience, and surveillance need for breast cancer-related information. The results are discussed in terms of the potential positive and negative consequences of regular exposure to breast cancer information in magazines.