Are changes in breast self-exam recommendations and early misperceptions of breast cancer risk increasing women's future risks?

Abstract

Objective Young women, high school age, are exposed to breast cancer messages targeting adult women that can result in misperceptions, increasing future risks. Changes in breast self‐exam screening recommendations may reduce nurse practitioner (NP) time addressing breast health. This study characterized misperceived knowledge of breast cancer risk in younger women. Method A survey (338 high school students aged 14 to 19) was conducted to assess their perceptions of breast cancer etiologies and risk behaviors. Results Survey results indicated 20% to 50% of students had misperceptions about breast cancer risk, and the mean knowledge score for all items was 65.47%. There were no differences in students with familial breast cancer histories or those instructed in breast self‐exam. Approximately 12% reported being fearful, avoiding public health messages, and approximately 20% thought breastfeeding increased breast cancer risk. Implications for practice The findings suggest that school‐based programs are not addressing misperceptions related to breast health effectively. A National Cancer Institute survey found that NPs and other providers are the most trusted sources of health information. Given the low rates of breast cancer in young women and recommendations against teaching breast self‐exam, it is important for NPs to be knowledgeable about common misperceptions and address them with their patients.

In Asian americans, is having a family member diagnosed with cancer associated with fatalistic beliefs?

“…The extensive public health messages and media coverage of cancer have been effective in bringing more individuals to screening but have had unintended effects including the misperception that everything causes cancer and there are too many recommendations to know what to do. [25] The other findings from this study suggest a portion of AAs have fatalistic views which are barriers to responding to cancer risks independent of family exposure specifically those with lower levels of education.…”

Employing a Risk Assessment Tool for Shared Decision-Making in Breast Cancer Screening

“…Interventions aimed at enhancing patients' understanding of their cancer risk have had a positive impact across all socioeconomic backgrounds, with low-income patients benefiting the most (Waters et al, 2016). Polek and Hardie (2016) suggest that discussions about risk reduction should not be limited to women aged 35 and above. Women of all ages are exposed to messages about breast health from various sources, including family, friends, and the media.…”

“…Polek and Hardie (2016) suggest that discussions about risk reduction should not be limited to women aged 35 and above. Women of all ages are exposed to messages about breast health from various sources, including family, friends, and the media.…”

“…Educating women about breast health and breast cancer risk can help dispel common misconceptions about modifiable and non-modifiable risks and allows for shared conversations about adopting healthy breast practices. Early education on the significance of a healthy lifestyle, overall health, and current screening recommendations including clinical breast exams, can serve as a foundation for future discussions as patients age and screening recommendations evolve (Polek & Hardie, 2016).…”

Practicas sobre autoexamen de mama en la población femenina : una revisión integrativa

“…Are changes in breast self-exam recommendations and early misperceptions of breast cancer risk increasing women ' s future risks ? (78) Evaluación del conocimiento y la práctica del autoexamen de mamas entre mujeres en edad reproductiva en el distrito Akatsi Sur de la región Volta de Ghana. Assessment of knowledge and practice of breast selfexamination among reproductive age women in Akatsi South district of Volta region of Ghana.…”