Reattendance of women for breast cancer screening programs. A review

BACKGROUND: In France, breast cancer is the most frequently occurring cancer and the leading cause of cancer deaths in women. Breast cancer screening has been shown to reduce breast cancer mortality by 30% provided attendance rate is 70% and re-screening interval is two to three years. Maintaining a high rate of reattendance is also important. The decline with time of completion rates of re-screening will lessen the benefits of a breast cancer screening program. METHODS: A review of published studies examining factors associated with attendance and reattendance to breast cancer screening. RESULTS: Positive views about initial screening are determining factors in reattendance: mammography should not be painful and embarrassing, appointments should be punctual and clinic staff courteous and supportive. Psychological factors influencing attendance also influence reattendance as does intention to participate, a major predictor of repeat participation and as do perceived susceptibility of breast cancer, perceived benefits of mammography, absence of emotional barriers. These factors can be modified by experience of previous screening. Other predicting factors of attendance continue to influence reattendance: practice of other preventive health behaviors, outside support from physicians, knowledge of breast cancer and screening. CONCLUSION: A better understanding of factors influencing attendance is necessary to increase the impact of breast cancer screening. Field studies are necessary to support the elaboration of publicity campaigns aimed at increasing participation.