IngentaConnect Predicting perceived vulnerability for breast cancer among women ...

Abstract:

Objectives. The purpose of the present study was to investigate predictors of perceived vulnerability for breast cancer in women with an average risk for breast cancer. On the basis of empirical findings that suggested which variables might be associated with perceived vulnerability for breast cancer, we investigated whether knowledge of breast cancer risk factors, cancer worry, intrusions about breast cancer, optimism about not getting cancer and perceived health status have a predictive value for perceived breast cancer vulnerability.

Design. In a 3-step approach, we recruited 292 women from the general public in Germany who had neither a family history of breast cancer nor breast cancer themselves. After receiving an initial informational letter about study objectives, the women were interviewed by telephone and then asked to fill in a self-administered questionnaire.

Methods. We used structural equation modelling and hypothesized that each of the included variables has a direct influence on perceived vulnerability for breast cancer.

Results. We found a valid model with acceptable fit indices. Optimism about not getting cancer, intrusions about breast cancer and women's perceived health status explained 32% of the variance of perceived vulnerability for breast cancer. Cancer worry and knowledge about breast cancer did not influence perceived vulnerability for breast cancer.

Conclusion. Perceived vulnerability for breast cancer is associated with health-related variables more than with knowledge about breast cancer risk factors.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.1348/135910705X71425

Affiliations: 1: Institute of Psychology, Department of Rehabilitation Psychology, University of Freiburg, Germany 2: Institute of Psychology, Department of Rehabilitation Psychology, University of Freiburg, Germany; Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Social & Behavioural Health Research, University of Berne, Switzerland

The full text electronic article is available for purchase. You will be able to download the full text electronic article after payment.

$24.40 plus tax Refund Policy

Predicting perceived vulnerability for breast cancer among women with an average breast cancer risk