Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
2024 World Cancer Congress, Geneve, İsviçre, 17 - 19 Eylül 2024, ss.99
Background
Turkey's National Cancer Control Program, launched in 2008, aims for a 70%
participation rate among women aged 40-69 in biennial mammography screenings
and community-based breast cancer screening. While free screening tests have
been available since 2008, Turkey has yet to reach its screening target.
Aim
This study delves into the motivations that drive women to undergo mammography
screenings, alongside identifying barriers, akin to a SWOT analysis, to understand
the system's capacity to engage women effectively in screenings.
Methods
This qualitative study conducted in-depth interviews with women aged 40-69 who
had undergone mammography in the last 2 years. Participants discussed their
experiences with mammography screening and what motivated them to get
screened. Audio recordings were transcribed into written transcripts, which
underwent content analysis to identify themes. Ethical approval and informed
consent were obtained.
Results
Interviews with 39 women, with an average age of 52.8 (ranging from 42 to 69),
from rural and urban areas across Turkey's five regions revealed significant insights
regarding clues to action. Most participants recognized the life-saving potential of
early cancer detection and were aware of the significance of screening, often
learning about programs through various channels, including media and social
networks. Recommendations focused on more engaging and empowering outreach
strategies to increase awareness about screening programs. The women also
emphasized the importance of developing less cumbersome technological methods
and a better appointment scheduling system. Pain was not considered a barrier to
getting screened again for this group of women.
Conclusion
To improve breast cancer screening participation, programs should focus on
outreach activities to engage and empower women, develop better screening
technologies, and streamline appointment processes. Additionally, understanding
and leveraging the system's capabilities in engaging women in screenings are
crucial for enhancing participation rates.