Adolescent females and their mothers: examining perceptions of the environment and breast cancer.
Recent research indicates environmental factors and personal behaviors are related to breast cancer risk, but adopting a healthy lifestyle as early as adolescence can serve a protective function. To investigate perceptions of breast cancer risk and the environment, 10 focus groups (N = 91) were conducted with adolescent females (n = 55) and mothers (n = 36) across four counties in the Midwest, USA. The Uncertainty Management Theory provides a framework for discussing statements, and results suggest that uncertainty is maintained through ambiguity about environmental risk factors and breast cancer. Recommendations for prevention messages are presented.
Volkman
Julie E
JE
Pennsylvania State University, University Park 16802, USA. julie.volkman@gmail.com
Silk
Kami J
KJ
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000517:prevention & control; D004777:Environment; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D015438:Health Behavior; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008019:Life Style; D008875:Middle Aged; D009034:Mother-Child Relations; D009035:Mothers; D010465:Perception; D012307:Risk Factors; D040242:Risk Reduction Behavior; D035501:Uncertainty; D055815:Young Adult