Ds. Lane et al., TRENDS IN MAMMOGRAPHY USE AND THEIR RELATION TO PHYSICIAN AND OTHER FACTORS, Cancer detection and prevention, 20(4), 1996, pp. 332-341
This study examines trends and factors (e.g., physician utilization) a
ffecting mammography use from 1988 to 1990 among women residing in an
area of high breast cancer incidence. Mail surveys of independent rand
om samples of over 2000 women 50 to 75 years of age residing on Long I
sland were conducted each of the three study years, and responses were
compared. Statistically significant increases in reported mammography
use occurred over the 3-year period within all age, income, and educa
tional subgroups. These were accompanied by a decline in reporting tha
t the doctor did not recommend it, as a reason for not having a mammog
ram, and by a statistically significant increase in reported physician
recommendation among those who visit a doctor annually, particularly
those using a gynecologist. Clinical breast examination was the strong
est predictor of mammography use, with knowledge of the recommended sc
reening frequency also strongly associated. Despite a regionally high
incidence of breast cancer, screening mammography use corresponded to
national rates. Access and visits to a regular physician were critical
factors and substantiated the need for education of women, family pra
ctitioners, and internists about breast cancer screening guidelines.