Breast Cancer Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Breast Cancer, including details on symptoms, genetics, screening, treatment, information.

Latina a Latina: developing a breast cancer decision support intervention.

Sheppard VB, Figueiredo M, Cañar J, Goodman M, Caicedo L, Kaufman A, Norling G, Mandelblatt J

Cancer Control Program, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA.

Latinas have the fastest rising incidence of breast cancer. Yet, little data are available about Latinas' breast cancer treatment experiences. Aims were to: (1) identify factors in Latinas' treatment decision making and (2) develop and pilot a decision support intervention. Thirty-seven Latinas diagnosed with breast cancer participated. Qualitative data were used to identify intervention messages. Most women desired help in asking questions. Women were most concerned about chemotherapy side effects. Cultural values (e.g. personalismo, familismo) helped structure intervention messages. In phase two, participants completed a face-to-face skill-building session with a trained breast cancer survivor. Women found the intervention acceptable and reported better communication and decision-making skills. Interventions that focus on cultural strengths may improve Latinas treatment experiences and informed decision making.

Published 2 April 2008 in Psychooncology, 17(4): 383-91.
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