Older women's attitudes towards breast disease, self examination, and screening facilities: implications for communication. Issue 6469 (2nd March 1985)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Leathar, D S; Roberts, M M
• Is Part Of: BMJ. Volume 290:Issue 6469(1985)
• Page Start: 668
• Page End: 670
• Publication Date: 1985-03-02
• Subjects: Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine; Periodicals; 610
• DOI: 10.1136/bmj.290.6469.668
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1447

Abstract

Abstract : Qualitative research techniques were used in two studies in Edinburgh to explore older women's attitudes and motivations towards breast disease, self examination, and screening, with a view to identifying appropriate strategies for communication. The results indicated that knowledge of breast disease and screening facilities was poor and that many psychological and emotional issues inhibited self examination. Increasing information about self examination and clinics is unlikely to influence uptake unless it is presented together with emotional support rather than through conventional mass media channels. Such support may best be provided by setting breast screening within general health screening rather than emphasising the single disease.