Breast cancer screening in older black women.

Abstract

The objective of this study was to report findings about older black women's responses to breast health education and screening. Findings were reported from a community-based intervention designed to improve breast screening services for women in Erie County, New York. A 34-foot mobile screening and education clinic was used to overcome barriers such as accessibility and cost. Results from a sample of 271 older black women showed that they participated in breast health education programs and received clinical breast examinations when these services were offered in their neighborhoods. However, there was low participation in screening mammography offered at a local hospital. Low participation was attributed to structural and functional barriers in the delivery system. This study emphasizes the particular importance of education and screening offered as one unit of service. Further, it emphasizes the need to examine older black women's reported experiences after participation in screening.