Mutually dependent health beliefs associated with breast self-examination in British female university students.

OBJECTIVE

Whereas research suggests young women's beliefs about breast cancer (susceptibility/severity) and its early detection (barriers/benefits) reliably distinguish breast self-examiners from nonexaminers, this study assessed whether these impressions are interreliant, especially in the context of familial risk.

PARTICIPANTS

The sample comprised over 200 female undergraduates from a university in England, United Kingdom.

METHODS

Participants completed a self-administered survey on their attitudes concerning breast cancer and early detection. Data were analyzed using logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Nonexaminers were distinguished by a combination of greater perceived hindrances to self-examinations and stronger appraisals of breast cancer severity, and also by a permutation of fewer perceived benefits in self-examinations and lower perceived susceptibility to breast cancer. The latter interaction persisted after accounting for family history.

CONCLUSIONS

Interwoven attitudes may depict sophisticated efforts on the part of nonexaminers to justify inaction. Clinical implications for college health providers are considered.