MAMMOGRAPHY USE AMONG SOCIODEMOGRAPHICALLY DIVERSE WOMEN - THE ACCURACY OF SELF-REPORT

Objective. This study sought to determine the accuracy of self-report of mammography experience among 392 ethnically diverse women aged 50 t o 74. Methods. Subjects were randomized to the telephone or mail condi tion and surveyed. Results. Thirty-one percent of women reported accur ately the exact month and year of their most recent mammogram, 54% rep orted accurately within +/-3 months, and 83% reported accurately withi n the year. Greater accuracy was associated with exam recency, White r ace, and non-Hispanic ethnicity, but not with age, education. or incom e. Most women could correctly report the reason for, the findings of, and the paper of their mammograms but knew little about how much they or their insurance paid. Conclusions. For population surveillance of m ammography in the past year, self-report data are generally valid. How ever, clinical studies requiring more precise dates must use such data with caution. The telephone method, as compared with mail, appears to be a better option for some variables.