Breast cancer knowledge and preventive behaviors: An urban emergency department-based survey

Objective: To assess general knowledge and preventive behaviors regarding b reast cancer among women who present to an urban emergency department. Meth ods: During a six-month study period, a convenience sampling of women aged 21 years and older who were in treatment and waiting areas was surveyed. Th e anonymous written survey asked about demographic variables, knowledge, an d preventive behaviors regarding breast cancer. Knowledge was assessed with questions about the recommended frequency of breast self-examination and t he recommended age for first mammography. Performance was assessed by quest ions about breast self-exam and mammography. Subgroup analysis was done by age (above and below 40 years old), race, income (above and below the media n), insurance type, history of breast lump, and family history (FH) of brea st cancer. Results: Four hundred women completed surveys. Two hundred twelv e (53%) correctly knew the answers to the two knowledge questions. Knowledg e was greater in women with private insurance. Knowledge of the frequency o f breast self-exam was significantly greater among whites and Native Americ ans than among African Americans, Asians, or Hispanics. Stated performance of preventive behaviors was 72% (288) for breast self-exam and for mammogra phy. Preventive behaviors were significantly more likely to be performed by higher-income and privately-insured women. Breast self-exam was more likel y to be done in older women, those with a history of a breast lump, and tho se with a FH of breast cancer. Conclusions: Women with lower income and wit hout private insurance were less likely to be knowledgeable and practice pr eventive measures for detecting breast disease.