Abstract
Background. Young female Hodgkins Disease (HD) survivors are at high risk for breast cancer following chest irradiation. We explored health perceptions, screening behaviors, and barriers of this population. Methods. Three focus groups and nine individual interviews (n = 22) were conducted. Results. Women expressed significant misperceptions about breast cancer risk and screening. Screening barriers included avoidance, insurance issues, and lack of physician support. Conclusion. Female HD survivors would likely benefit from tailored education that links current beliefs with their previous cancer experience. Education about cancer risk may be more effective if delivered in a health-promoting rather than disease-detection framework. J Cancer Educ. 2007; 22:42–46.
Presented at American Psycho-Oncology Society, Phoenix, AZ, February 2005. Supported by Lance Armstrong Foundation grant.