[Factors related with the use of screening mammogram in middle age women in Puerto Rico].
Mammography for low-income women is an important intervention issue as it is still under utilized in these sectors. Despite evidence in favor of breast cancer screening with mammograms, research indicates that mammogram compliance among low-income females and women over 50 years of age has been slow. This article revolves around the factors that affect compliance with screening mammograms among low-income women ages 40 to 64 in Puerto Rico once they receive a referral from a physician. Although the multivariate analysis demonstrated that only age, work outside of the home and performing breast self-exams significantly increased the probability for middle-aged, low-income women in Puerto Rico to comply with referrals and have mammograms, this research illustrated that certain factors such as knowledge about the disease and screening practices, a satisfactory perception of the patient-physician relationship, and the performance of a clinical breast exam by a physician influence mammogram compliance.
Sánchez-Ayéndez
Melba
M
Escuela Graduada de Salud Pública, Recinto de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad de Puerto Rico, PO Box 365067, San Juan, Puerto Rico 00936-5067.
Nazario
Cruz María
CM
Dávila
Ana Luisa
AL
Fernández-Garrote
Leticia
L
Hernández-Santiago
Johan
J
D000328:Adult; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000517:prevention & control*; D016504:Breast Self-Examination / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008327:Mammography / Q000191:economics / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D008403:Mass Screening / Q000191:economics / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D008875:Middle Aged; D010349:Patient Compliance; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D011647:Puerto Rico; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors