Understanding Breast Cancer Risk Perception in Women
Author Information
Author(s): Keogh Louise A, McClaren Belinda J, Apicella Carmel, Hopper John L
Primary Institution: The University of Melbourne
Hypothesis
How do women at increased, but unexplained, familial risk of breast cancer perceive and manage their risk?
Conclusion
Women’s understanding of their breast cancer risk is complex and influences their screening behaviors.
Supporting Evidence
- Women were classified into five groups based on their risk management styles.
- The study found that women's emotional responses to their perceived risk were interconnected with their practical responses.
- Only a quarter of participants consulted a specialist regularly despite their high familial risk.
Takeaway
This study talks to women who are worried about getting breast cancer because their family members have had it, and it shows how they think about their risk and what they do about it.
Methodology
Qualitative interviews were conducted with women at increased familial risk of breast cancer to explore their perceptions and management of risk.
Potential Biases
The study may be biased as it included women who were willing to participate, potentially skewing the results.
Limitations
The sample was not highly educated, and the findings may not represent all women at risk.
Participant Demographics
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Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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