Breast cancer knowledge among women with intellectual disabilities and their experiences of receiving breast mammography

Truesdale-Kennedy, M. , Taggart, L. and McIlfatrick, S. (2011) Breast cancer knowledge among women with intellectual disabilities and their experiences of receiving breast mammography. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 67(6), pp. 1294-1304. (doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2648.2010.05595.x) (PMID:21366669)

Abstract

Aim. This paper is a report of a descriptive study of understanding of breast cancer and experiences of breast mammography among women with an intellectual disability. Background. Despite the efforts of government policies and documents to ensure equal access to improve health screening for people with intellectual disability, the uptake for breast mammography in this population still remains lower than that of the general population. Method. A qualitative approach using four focus groups was undertaken with 19 women identified as having a borderline to moderate intellectual disability all of whom had received a breast mammography. Data collection took place in 2009. Analysis of the data was undertaken using thematic content analysis. Results. The women’s knowledge of breast cancer including associated risks, preventative factors and signs and symptoms were extremely limited with their sources of knowledge primarily coming from carers or nursing staff on receipt of an invitation for mammography. Although these women expressed a positive attitude towards their experiences of breast mammography, they also described negative feelings of fear and anxiety, attributed to a lack of understanding about the screening process. A lack of information and embarrassment were identified as the main barriers to screening for this group. Conclusion. This study highlights the need for accessible multi‐format information in order to facilitate health promotion and education in women with intellectual disability, their family carers and healthcare staff working with this target group in order to enhance the knowledge and awareness of breast cancer and screening.

• Item Type: Articles
• Additional Information: A small Pilot Grant for this research project was obtained from the Breast Cancer Campaign, London, awarded to Laurence Taggart and Sonja McIlfatrick. Funding: This study was funded by the Breast Cancer Campaign, London.
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Truesdale, Dr Maria
• Authors: Truesdale-Kennedy, M., Taggart, L., and McIlfatrick, S.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Mental Health and Wellbeing
• Journal Name: Journal of Advanced Nursing
• Publisher: Wiley
• ISSN: 0309-2402
• ISSN (Online): 1365-2648
• Published Online: 01 March 2011