Breast cancer - preventive care and screening patterns among Hispanic women in the Rio Grande Valley

Authors

Sreelatha Gobburu, University of Texas-Pan American

Date of Award

7-2003

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Sociology

First Advisor

Dr. Elena Bastida

Second Advisor

Dr. Robert Lee Maril

Third Advisor

Dr. Raymond Guerra

Abstract

Although breast cancer rates are lower among Hispanic women than among white women, Hispanics are more likely to die from this disease. This may be related to the fact that Hispanic women are less likely to practice preventive care methods such as Breast Self Exam (BSE) and Mammography. Cultural beliefs and attitudes about diseases play a significant role in Hispanic health behavior. Access to and availability of medical services, affective reactions towards cancer screening and treatment methods, and socioeconomic and demographic factors are stronger determinants of health care practices of Hispanic women. This study examines screening patterns of Hispanic women in the Rio Grande Valley as it relates to structural factors that may determine breast cancer preventive practices. A questionnaire was used to solicit information on age, income, education, health insurance, breast cancer awareness, preventive measures, and cultural beliefs towards breast cancer. Subjects were 600 randomly selected Hispanic women of aged 35 years and older living in the Rio Grande Valley, Texas. Standard statistical methods were used to analyze the obtained data and to interpret the results.

Comments

Copyright 2003 Sreelatha Gobburu. All Rights Reserved.

https://www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/breast-cancer-preventive-care-screening-patterns/docview/250167529/se-2?accountid=7119

Granting Institution

University of Texas-Pan American