Factors Influencing Patient-Physician Discussion of Mammography Choice: Examining Informed Decision Making Amidst Cancer Screening Controversy

• In Event: ICA Plenary Interactive Paper/Poster Session III
  In Interactive Paper Session: Health Communication Interactive Poster Session

Abstract

In 2009 the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommended against routine mammograms for women ages 40-49. When a firestorm of controversy followed, the USPSTF amended the guidelines, emphasizing the value of informed decision making for women under 50. Little is known about whether and for whom this decision making is taking place. Using data from HINTS 4 Cycle 2, this study documents the prevalence of and examines sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with patient-physician discussion of mammography choice. Results show that many women ages 40-49 do not report discussing mammography choice with their physicians. Some observed differences in communication patterns across population groups may reflect communication inequalities, which have the potential to exacerbate health disparities. Given ongoing expert disagreement about the use of mammography screening—discord that increasingly plays out in the media—it is important for clinicians to help women understand screening’s risks and benefits to make an informed choice.

Authors

• Rebekah Nagler, U of Minnesota

• Jennifer Lueck, U of Minnesota