Health belief model variables as predictors of screening mammography utilization

Abstract

Despite its efficacy, screening mammography is not widely utilized due to various factors. The Health Belief Model (HBM) has previously been used as one conceptualization of relevant patient attitudes. No psychometrically validated measure of these variables has previously been utilized, however, nor have prospective studies of women all of whom have been referred by their physicians for mammography been reported. The research reported here addressed both of those issues. A psychometrically validated measure of the HBM variables, perceived susceptibility, barriers, and benefits, was used, along with age, education, ethnicity, and family breast cancer history to predict mammography utilization in a prospective study of hospital employees. Being white, perceiving fewer benefits of and barriers to mammography, and having a family history of breast cancer were predictive of noncompliance. The avoidant behavior of employees with a family history of breast cancer must be addressed in attempts to increase mammography utilization. In addition, results of the study imply the need for full discussion with women referred for mammography of all issues related to its use, both its benefits and possible barriers.

Modeling Insect-Repellent Use for Chikungunya Disease Prevention Among US-Caribbean Travelers

“…20 Mixed results of the association between perceived vulnerability and health behavior have been reported. 19,21,22 Chen et al reported a significant association between perceived vulnerability and getting a flu vaccine, 23 while Hyman et al 24 reported no association between perceived vulnerability and mammography utilization. Perceived severity concerns evaluations of both clinical and social consequences of a disease.…”

Factors Affecting Breast Cancer Screening Behavior in Japan - Assessment using the Health Belief Model and Conjoint Analysis

“…In Japan, Hata et al (2009) are proposing a revised HBM based on these basic concepts. In the past, studies on the association between breast cancer screening behaviors and psychological characteristic by the HBM have been conducted mainly in Europe and the United States (Stein et al, 1992;Hyman et al, 1994;Menon et al, 2007;Tavafian et al, 2009;Hajian et al, 2011;Yilmaz et al, 2013). In Japan, although there are reports on screening behaviors associated with population-based (Tohnai and Hata, 1994) and gastric cancer screenings (Tsubono et al, 1993), few have applied studies on breast cancer screening behaviors.…”

A randomized trial of breast cancer risk counseling: the impact on self-reported mammography use.

“…[2][3][4][5] Inaccurate risk perceptions and elevated levels of distress may serve as barriers to mammography use in this population.6'7 Thus, interventions designed to improve risk comprehension, decrease distress, and enhance mammography use are needed.8…”