Differences in perceptions of risk, benefits, and barriers by stage of mammography adoption

Purpose: The purpose of this report was to identify the relationship of mammography adoption with perceived susceptibility to breast cancer and perceived benefits and barriers to mammography. Methods: Stage of mammography adoption was based on the Transtheoretical Model. Previously validated scales for susceptibility, benefits, and barriers were administered. The sample included 694 women who were recruited from a large Health Maintenance Organization and general medicine clinic. The mean age was 61.2 years; 30% were African American and 67% were Caucasian. Results: Women who were currently compliant (action) had lower perceived barriers than other groups. Precontemplators and Relapse Precontemplators had lower perceived benefits scores than those who were currently compliant or those who were thinking of having a mammogram. Women who had never received a mammogram were more likely to feel they were too old for the procedure. Stage matched interventions are discussed. Conclusions: Beliefs differ among women in various stages of mammography adoption. These differences may inform interventions to increase mammography use.