Health Care Access and Breast Cancer Screening Among Latinas Along the California-Mexican Border

Summary

Published Date: October 23, 2013

​Latinas are more likely to exhibit late stage breast cancers at the time of diagnosis and have lower survival rates compared to white women. A contributing factor may be that Latinas have lower rates of mammography screening. Using 2007 California Health Interview Survey (CHIS), the authors examined factors associated with mammography screening utilization among middle-aged Latinas. Characteristics associated with mammography screening adherence included a lower acculturation, a recent physician visit in the past year, and a greater confidence in filling out medical forms. Results demonstrate that an annual physical examination was the strongest predictor of recent breast cancer screening.