Ethnic Differences in Breast Cancer Prevention Information-Seeking Among Rural Women: Will Provider Mobile Messages Work?

Abstract

Although growing research supports cancer survivor information-seeking, little is known about breast cancer prevention information-seeking among women. The purpose of the study was to examine differences in breast cancer risk factor knowledge, information sources, and desired mobile messages among Hispanic and non-Hispanic rural women. Women were recruited to complete a survey at an imaging center during a mammography screening visit. A total of 156 women (mean age = 61, SD = 12.07) completed the survey. Breast cancer risk factor knowledge was significantly higher for non-Hispanic women compared to Hispanic women (p = .035). Television, magazines, and Internet were the most frequent information sources. Providers were the most frequent interpersonal information source. Nearly 87 % used cell phones and 47 % used texting. Hispanic women were more likely to desire breast cancer prevention cell voice messages (p < .001) and text messages (p = .001) compared to non-Hispanic women. No significant differences were found for text appointment reminders by ethnicity. Health educators and clinicians must promote mobile messages for Hispanics and non-Hispanics for mammography adherence, breast cancer prevention education, and best practices to manage screening appointments.

Adoption of Information and Communication Technologies for Early Detection of Breast and Cervical Cancers in Low- and Middle-Income Countries

“…7 In New Mexico in the United States, a study on cancer prevention knowledge, health seeking behavior, and desire for mobile messaging among Hispanic and non-Hispanic rural women concluded that mobile technology may fill an important gap in educational needs on cancer prevention. 8 A study in Botswana showed improved access to see-and-treat cervical cancer screening via mobile telemedicine for women in remote regions. 9 Another pilot program in Botswana using telemedicine to reach regions with few medical specialists demonstrated the need for both strong management and local partnerships to achieve sustainability.…”

What do women know about breast cancer prophylaxis and a healthy style of life?

“…The authors of the study conducted on 156 women living in rural areas (divided into two groups -Spanish women and women of different origin) suggest that doctors and other health education specialists should use mobile devices (applications) in order to promote the knowledge concerning breast cancer prophylaxis. 28 Another form of awareness raising, which has been used for years, are events held with the aim to show the possibility of taking part in prophylactic examinations and contact with experts (e.g. a dietician, diabetes experts, dermatologist).…”

Effectiveness of Online Education in Teaching Breast Self-Examination

“…Television, radio and new technological developments such as the internet affect women's health beliefs with regard to the early diagnosis of breast cancer in a positive way, and increase their motivation (Kim et al, 2001;Yi et al, 2008;Heo et al, 2013;Kratzke and Wilson, 2013).…”