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Siebers CCN, Appelman L, Kočo L, Palm M, Rainey L, Broeders MJM, Appelman PTM, Go S, Van Oirsouw MCJ, Mann RM. Patients' perceptions of targeted breast ultrasound and digital breast tomosynthesis in the diagnostic setting: A mixed methods study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0308840. [PMID: 39141648 PMCID: PMC11324127 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0308840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although DBT is the standard initial imaging modality for women with focal breast symptoms, the importance of ultrasound has grown rapidly in the past decades. Therefore, the Breast UltraSound Trial (BUST) focused on assessing the diagnostic value of ultrasound and digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) for the evaluation of breast symptoms by reversing the order of breast imaging; first performing ultrasound followed by DBT. This side-study of the BUST evaluates patients' perceptions of ultrasound and DBT in a reversed setting. METHODS After imaging, 1181/1276 BUST participants completed a survey consisting of open and closed questions regarding both exams (mean age 47.2, ±11.74). Additionally, a different subset of BUST participants (n = 29) participated in six focus group interviews 18-24 months after imaging to analyze their imaging experiences in depth. RESULTS A total of 55.3% of women reported reluctance to undergoing DBT, primarily due of pain, while the vast majority also find bilateral DBT reassuring (87.3%). Thematic analysis identified themes related to 1) imaging reluctance (pain/burden, result, and breast harm) and 2) ultrasound and DBT perceptions. Regarding the latter, the theme comfort underscores DBT as burdensome and painful, while ultrasound is largely perceived as non-burdensome. Ultrasound is also particularly valued for its interactive nature, as highlighted in the theme interaction. Perceived effectiveness reflects women's interest in bilateral breast evaluation with DBT and the visibility of lesions, while they express more uncertainty about the reliability of ultrasound. Emotional impact portrays DBT as reassuring for many women, whereas opinions on the reassurance provided by ultrasound are more diverse. Additional themes include costs, protocols and privacy. CONCLUSIONS Ultrasound is highly tolerated, and particularly valued is the interaction with the radiologist. Nearly half of women express reluctance towards DBT; nevertheless, a large portion report feeling more confident after undergoing bilateral DBT, reassuring them of the absence of abnormalities. Understanding patients' perceptions of breast imaging examinations is of great value when optimizing diagnostic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen C. N. Siebers
- Department of Medical Imaging, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Linda Appelman
- Department of Medical Imaging, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Lejla Kočo
- Department of Medical Imaging, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Mette Palm
- Department of Medical Imaging, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Linda Rainey
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Mireille J. M. Broeders
- Department for Health Evidence, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Dutch Expert Centre for Screening, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Shirley Go
- Department of Radiology, Noordwest Ziekenhuisgroep, Alkmaar, The Netherlands
| | - Marja C. J. Van Oirsouw
- Patient Advocate on Behalf of the Dutch Breast Cancer Society (Borstkanker Vereniging Nederland), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ritse M. Mann
- Department of Medical Imaging, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Radiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Siebers CCN, Appelman L, Appelman PTM, Go S, van Oirsouw MCJ, Broeders MJM, Mann RM. Women's Experiences with Digital Breast Tomosynthesis and Targeted Breast Ultrasound for Focal Breast Complaints: A Survey Study. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2024; 33:499-501. [PMID: 38386779 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2023.0502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Owing to its high sensitivity, as concluded in the Breast UltraSound Trial (BUST), targeted ultrasound (US) now seems a promising accurate stand-alone modality for diagnostic evaluation of breast complaints. This approach implies omission of bilateral digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) in women with clearly benign US findings. Within BUST, radiologists started with US followed by DBT. This side-study investigates women's experiences with DBT, their main motivation to undergo diagnostic imaging, and their view on US as a stand-alone modality. Methods: A subset of BUST participants completed a questionnaire on their DBT experiences, reason for undergoing diagnostic assessment, and view on US-only diagnostics. Responses were analyzed with descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses. Results: In total, 778 of 838 women (response rate 92.8%) were included (M = 47, SD = 11.16). Of them, 16.8% reported no burden of DBT, 33.5% slight burden, 31.0% moderate, and 12.7% severe burden. Furthermore, 13% reported no pain, 35.3% slight pain, 33.2% moderate, and 11.3% severe pain. Moreover, 88.3% indicated that the most important reason for breast assessment was explanation of their complaint and to rule out breast cancer, whereas 3.2% wanted to "check" both breasts. And 82.4% reported satisfaction with US only in case of a nonmalignancy. Conclusions: Our study shows that most women in the diagnostic setting experience at least slight-to-moderate DBT-related burden and pain, and that explanation for their symptoms is their main interest. Also, the majority report satisfaction with US only in case of nonmalignant findings. However, exploration of women's perspectives outside this study is needed as our participants all underwent both examinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen C N Siebers
- Department of Medical Imaging, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Linda Appelman
- Department of Medical Imaging, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Peter T M Appelman
- Department of Radiology, St. Antonius Hospital, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Shirley Go
- Department of Radiology, Noordwest Ziekenhuisgroep, Alkmaar, The Netherlands
| | - Marja C J van Oirsouw
- Patient advocate on behalf of the Dutch Breast Cancer Society (Borstkankervereniging Nederland), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Mireille J M Broeders
- Department for Health Evidence, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Dutch Expert Centre for Screening, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ritse M Mann
- Department of Medical Imaging, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Radiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Ding S, Fontaine T, Serex M, Sá Dos Reis C. Strategies enhancing the patient experience in mammography: A scoping review. Radiography (Lond) 2024; 30:340-352. [PMID: 38141428 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2023.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A positive experience in mammography is essential for increasing patient attendance and reattendance at these examinations, whether conducted for diagnostic or screening purposes. Mammograms indeed facilitate early disease detection, enhance the potential for cure, and consequently reduce breast cancer mortality. The main objective of this review was to identify and map the strategies aiming to improve the patient experience in diagnostic and screening mammography. METHODS This scoping review was performed following the JBI methodology and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Searches were performed through databases of MEDLINE, Embase.com, CINAHL, APA PsycINFO, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, ProQuest Dissertation and Theses, and three clinical trial registries. This review considered studies evaluating the effect of interventions, occurring within the mammography department, on the patient experience. RESULTS The literature search yielded 8113 citations of which 60, matching the inclusion criteria, were included. The strategies were classified into eight categories. The most represented one was breast compression and positioning, followed by relaxation techniques and analgesic care, communication and information, screening equipment, examination procedures, patient-related factors, physical environment, and finally staff characteristics. The studied outcomes related to patient experience were mainly pain, anxiety, comfort, and satisfaction. Other types of outcomes were also considered in the studies such as image quality, technical parameters, or radiation dose. Most studies were conducted by radiographers, on female patients, and none mentioned the inclusion of male or transgender patients. CONCLUSION This review outlined a diversity of strategies to improve patient experience, although technique-based interventions were predominant. Further research is warranted, notably on psychological strategies, and on men and transgender people. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE This scoping review provides guidance to healthcare providers and services for better patient/client-centered care.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Ding
- Department of Radiologic Medical Imaging Technology, School of Health Sciences (HESAV), HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western, Switzerland; BEST JBI Centre of Excellence, Switzerland.
| | - T Fontaine
- Department of Radiologic Medical Imaging Technology, School of Health Sciences (HESAV), HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western, Switzerland
| | - M Serex
- Library, School of Health Sciences (HESAV), HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western, Switzerland
| | - C Sá Dos Reis
- Department of Radiologic Medical Imaging Technology, School of Health Sciences (HESAV), HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western, Switzerland
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Siebers CCN, Appelman L, van Oirsouw MCJ, Appelman PTM, Go S, Mann RM. The Effect of Targeted Ultrasound as Primary Imaging Modality on Quality of Life in Women with Focal Breast Complaints: A Comparative Cohort Study. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2023; 32:71-77. [PMID: 36318794 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2022.0078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The high diagnostic performance of modern breast ultrasound (US) opens the possibility to shift toward targeted US as initial imaging test in women with breast complaints. This comparative cohort study investigates the effects of starting with US followed by digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), as practiced in the breast ultrasound study (BUST), on women's health-related quality of life (QoL). Methods: Fifty BUST participants and 50 "controls" who underwent DBT and US in regular order filled out the EQ-5D-3L three times during their visit: BUST participants before US (T1), after US (T2), and after DBT (T3) and non-BUST participants before DBT (T1), after DBT (T2), and after US (T3). Changes in QoL from baseline to T2 and T3 were assessed using generalized least squares, also taking into account the effects of biopsy, age, and complaint type. Results: Participants' mean age was 50.6 years (BUST: SD = 12.1, controls: SD = 11.5). At T2 the overall QoL was higher [t(102.9) = 2.4, p = 0.017] and anxiety levels were lower [t(98.7) = -2.4, p = 0.020] in BUST participants compared with controls. However, from T2 to T3 these effects equalize, resulting in similar performances in QoL and anxiety at T3, respectively [t(97.6) = -2.3, p = 0.023] and [t(97.2) = 3.1, p = 0.002]. Compared with BUST participants, controls show a clear decrease in pain after US [t(106.5) = -2.8, p = 0.006]. Women undergoing biopsy had lower QoL [t(167.1) = -2.4, p = 0.017] and pain [t(154.1) = -2.1, p = 0.038], and more anxiety [t(187.4) = 4.3, p = 0.000]. Conclusions: The results suggest that changing the radiological order by starting with US has a short-term positive effect on overall QoL, anxiety, and DBT pain experience in symptomatic women. Owing to its negative impact, biopsies should be performed cautiously. In conclusion, the moment of reassurance for women advances by reversing the radiological order according to the BUST, showing the high importance of human interaction in diagnostic care in addition to the clinical performance of imaging modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen C N Siebers
- Department of Medical Imaging, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Linda Appelman
- Department of Medical Imaging, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marja C J van Oirsouw
- Patient Advocate on Behalf of the Dutch Breast Cancer Society (Borstkanker Vereniging Nederland), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Peter T M Appelman
- Department of Radiology, St. Antonius Hospital, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Shirley Go
- Department of Radiology, Noordwest Ziekenhuisgroep, Alkmaar, The Netherlands
| | - Ritse M Mann
- Department of Medical Imaging, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Department of Radiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Lubi K, Sildver K, Sokolova D, Savicka V, Nool I, Mets-Oja S, Tupits M. Existing Health Practices in Shaping the Decision to Participate During Breast Cancer Screening Among 50–69 Years Old Women in Estonia. SAGE Open Nurs 2022; 8:23779608221124293. [PMID: 36120503 PMCID: PMC9476240 DOI: 10.1177/23779608221124293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Breast cancer is easily detectable by mammography and many countries run national screening programs for women as a target group. Yet, the majority of these countries have screening participation rates below the recommended level of 70%. Objective The aim of the present article was to examine a connection between existing health practices and a decision to participate during breast cancer screening. Methods Methodologically, this research was a web panel and quantitative telephone survey. The survey was conducted among 1200 Estonian women in the age group 50–69 years. Statistical data analysis was performed with SPSS using a descriptive and logistic regression model. Results The findings revealed that among different background variables, age and existing health practices significantly influenced the decision-making for participating in the screening. Results also highlighted that the possibility to participate in the screening increased with existing supportive health practices and with the increasing age. Other sociodemographic factors did not have a significant influence on the decision-making of participation. Conclusions There is a need to educate people from an early age about the developments in health practices that could support a healthy lifestyle in terms of individual responsibility. Thus, public health campaigns should not only call for action but also focus on health education in terms of the role of preventive medicine and health practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kadi Lubi
- Health Education Centre, Tallinn Health Care College, Tallinn, Estonia
- Department of Communication, Riga Stradiuns University, Rīga, Latvia
- Department of Health Technologies, School on Information Technologies, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Kaire Sildver
- Health Education Centre, Tallinn Health Care College, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Diana Sokolova
- Health Education Centre, Tallinn Health Care College, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Vita Savicka
- Department of Communication, Riga Stradiuns University, Rīga, Latvia
| | - Irma Nool
- Chair of Nursing, Tallinn Health Care College, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Silja Mets-Oja
- Health Education Centre, Tallinn Health Care College, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Mare Tupits
- Chair of Nursing, Tallinn Health Care College, Tallinn, Estonia
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Lubi K, Savicka V, Koor M, Nool I, Tupits M, Mets-Oja S. Practice theoretical approach on the reasons why target group women refrain from taking breast cancer screening. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2021; 104:3053-3058. [PMID: 33836938 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2021.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. Despite the availability of effective breast cancer screening programmes, there are only six countries in the European Union reaching the recommended target rate of 70% screened. In addition to the individual reasons for refraining from breast cancer screening, this research aims to follow earlier suggestions to use a practice theoretical approach. METHODS The study sites were Estonia and Latvia, where 9 and 12 semi-structured interviews were conducted, respectively. Convenience and snowball sampling methods were used. The research was approved by ethics committees in both countries. The interviews passed textual analysis and coding. RESULTS The findings revealed that there are three major types of reasons - habitual, practical, and emotional - that influence the formation of the final decision to participate in breast cancer screening. CONCLUSION The implementation of an individualistic approach is not sufficient to bring along desired health behaviour. All groups of reasons, individual and societal context are involved in the decision formation. Thus, structurally provided approaches and messages should be re-conceptualised and re-designed accordingly. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Future screening related campaigns and public health education should address the concerns derived from different types of reasons for refraining from screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kadi Lubi
- Tallinn Health Care College, Health Education Center, Kännu 67, 13418 Tallinn, Estonia; Department of Communication Studies, Riga Stradins University, 16 Dzirciema iela, Rīga LV-1007, Latvia.
| | - Vita Savicka
- Department of Communication Studies, Riga Stradins University, 16 Dzirciema iela, Rīga LV-1007, Latvia.
| | - Marilyn Koor
- Tallinn Health Care College, Health Education Center, Kännu 67, 13418 Tallinn, Estonia.
| | - Irma Nool
- Tallinn Health Care College, Chair of Nursing, Kännu 67, 13418 Tallinn, Estonia.
| | - Mare Tupits
- Tallinn Health Care College, Chair of Nursing, Kännu 67, 13418 Tallinn, Estonia.
| | - Silja Mets-Oja
- Tallinn Health Care College, Health Education Center, Kännu 67, 13418 Tallinn, Estonia.
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Byrnes K, Hamilton S, McGeechan GJ, O'Malley C, Mankelow J, Giles EL. Attitudes and perceptions of people with a learning disability, family carers, and paid care workers towards cancer screening programmes in the United Kingdom: A qualitative systematic review and meta-aggregation. Psychooncology 2019; 29:475-484. [PMID: 31834649 DOI: 10.1002/pon.5311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Evidence suggests that people with a learning disability (PwLD) are less likely to attend cancer screening than the general population in the United Kingdom. The aim of this systematic review was to identify and synthesise qualitative studies reporting the attitudes and opinions of PwLD, family carers, and paid care workers towards national cancer screening programmes. METHODS Five electronic and two grey literature databases were searched. Fourteen thousand eight hundred forty-six papers were reviewed against predetermined inclusion criteria. Included papers were critically appraised. Findings were synthesised using meta-aggregation. RESULTS Eleven papers met the inclusion criteria, all related to cervical and breast screening. No papers were related to colorectal cancer screening. Findings were clustered into four synthesised findings: (1) supporting women with a learning disability (WwLD) to attend screening, (2) WwLD's awareness of screening and their psychophysical experiences, 3) professional practice barriers including the need for multidisciplinary working and an understanding of the needs of WwLD, and (4) approaches to improve the uptake of cervical and breast cancer screening. The synthesis highlights the significance of WwLD having support to understand the importance of screening to be able to make an informed choice about attending. CONCLUSIONS WwLD may not attend cancer screening due to fear, concerns over pain, and the potential influence of family carers and paid care workers. The review identified practical mechanisms which could help WwLD attend screening. Future research should focus on identifying potential barriers and facilitators as a proactive measure to promote colorectal cancer screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Byrnes
- School of Health & Life Science, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, UK
| | - Sharon Hamilton
- School of Health & Life Science, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, UK.,Teesside Centre for Evidence-Informed Practice: A JBI Affiliated Group, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, UK
| | - Grant J McGeechan
- School of Social Sciences, Humanities and Law, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, UK
| | - Claire O'Malley
- School of Health & Life Science, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, UK
| | - Jagjit Mankelow
- School of Health & Life Science, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, UK
| | - Emma L Giles
- School of Health & Life Science, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, UK
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Barriers to, and facilitators of, access to cancer services and experiences of cancer care for adults with a physical disability: A mixed methods systematic review. Disabil Health J 2019; 13:100844. [PMID: 31668781 DOI: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2019.100844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Revised: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer services need to be inclusive and accessible to everybody, including people with disabilities. However, there is evidence suggesting that people with disabilities experience poorer access to cancer services, compared to people without disabilities. OBJECTIVES To investigate the barriers and facilitators of access to cancer services for people with physical disabilities and their experiences of cancer care. METHODS A mixed-method systematic review was conducted following the Evidence for Policy and Practice Information and Co-ordinating Centre approach. We used the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT -Version 11) to assess the quality of the included studies. We employed thematic synthesis to bring together data from across both qualitative and quantitative studies and we assessed the strength of synthesised findings using the Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative Research (CERQual) approach. RESULTS Seven quantitative studies and 10 qualitative studies (across 18 publications) were included. The findings highlighted a dearth of research on the experiences of men with disabilities. Furthermore, only one study explored experiences of cancer treatment, with all other studies focusing on cancer screening. Five synthesised findings were identified that reflected barriers and facilitators, highlighting both what makes access to services difficult and what are the strategies that could improve it. CONCLUSIONS Knowing what works for people with disabilities can enable the delivery of appropriate services. The findings of this review suggest that the mere existence of services does not guarantee their usability. Services need to be relevant, flexible, and accessible, and offered in a respectful manner.
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Marzouq Muhanna A, Floyd MJ. A qualitative study to determine Kuwaiti Women's knowledge of breast cancer and barriers deterring attendance at mammography screening. Radiography (Lond) 2019; 25:65-71. [PMID: 30599833 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2018.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2018] [Revised: 10/14/2018] [Accepted: 10/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although a Mammography Screening Service (MSS) has been established in Kuwait since 2014, the attendance rate for eligible women is only 4.2% in comparison to 72.1% attendance in the United Kingdom (UK) mammography screening service. The aim of this study was to determine Kuwaiti women's knowledge of breast cancer (BC), their attitudes toward BCS and the reasons for not attending Mammography Screening (MS). METHODS A pragmatic qualitative methodology was used which included the use of two focus groups conducted at two women only social organisations in Kuwait with a total of 23 women. One focus group was conducted at a social and cultural organisation; the second focus group took place at a social organisation whose primary role is the improvement of literacy though the use of religious scripture. Thematic analysis was applied to the recorded verbal transcripts from each focus group. RESULTS Thematic analysis revealed four major themes, accompanied by a series of subthemes (1) knowledge and awareness of BC health, (2) knowledge of MS (3) personal factors, (4) medical provision and social environment. CONCLUSION Findings suggest that participant's knowledge of BC and the decision to attend MS is influenced by a series of factors both personal and external. An increase in the awareness of BC, MS and the process of accessing MSS will enhance the uptake of MS among Kuwaiti women. Furthermore, doctors and health care providers will need to play a significant role in encouraging women to self-refer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M J Floyd
- Cardiff University, Heath Park Campus, CF14 4ER, UK
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Cassar Agius E, Naylor S. Breast compression techniques in screening mammography - A Maltese evaluation project. Radiography (Lond) 2018; 24:309-314. [PMID: 30292499 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2018.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Revised: 02/17/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In screening mammography, the radiographer should be responsible for providing mammograms of high diagnostic value, possibly without subjecting clients to a painful experience. This skill is demonstrated via the technique of breast compression and is explored in this study by analysing insights about methods and underlying principles in regards to this procedure. METHODS One-to-one semi-structured interviews were conducted with radiographers who perform screening mammography in Malta. For data analysis, a descriptive phenomenological approach following a simplified version of Hycner's (1985) method was adopted. RESULTS Five general themes were extracted from the data; meeting the client, preparing the client, the mammography procedure, pain from compression and client turnout. It was determined that the participants alter their breast compression technique according to the client rather than following a rigid step-by-step process and that explanation and requesting client feedback are essential to obtain cooperation. Additionally, mammography positioning and compression application are tailored in a way that encourage compliance, however not at the expense of degrading image quality. Ultimately, it is also believed that a proper breast compression technique positively influences client turnout. CONCLUSION The results of this study demonstrate that radiographers should be flexible in their approach in order to carry out a successful breast compression technique. However, it has also been shown that such effectiveness in practice is gained from experience rather than initial training. If exposed to this study's findings, new mammographers would be able to form a robust core of knowledge before embarking on the challenging specialisation of mammography.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Cassar Agius
- 17, National Breast Screening Programme, Lascaris Wharf, Valletta, VLT 1921, Malta.
| | - S Naylor
- Diagnostic Imaging, Sheffield Hallam University, Collegiate Campus, Sheffield, S10 2BP, United Kingdom
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Warren-Forward HM, Mackie B, Alchin M, Mooney T, Fitzpatrick P. Perceptions of Australian clients towards male radiographers working in breast imaging: Quantitative results from a pilot study. Radiography (Lond) 2017; 23:3-8. [PMID: 28290337 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2016.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2016] [Revised: 05/17/2016] [Accepted: 05/20/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
AIM Breast cancer is the second most common cause of cancer-related death in Australian women, therefore early breast cancer detection is essential. Female radiographers currently conduct breast screening in Australia; however there is a projected shortage. With many women already feeling apprehensive about attending a breast examination, possible proposals to fill this shortage must be carefully considered. Training male radiographers is one proposal however, this raises some gender concerns. This study aimed to pilot an investigation into whether it would change women's willingness to attend breast screening if conducted by a male radiographer. METHOD A questionnaire completed by 146 women aged over 40 asked questions on attitude, initial reaction and how they would proceed if attended to by a male in three clinical situations (Mammography; Ultrasound and Breast Surgery). RESULTS The results revealed that women would have had their mammogram (90%), ultrasound (95%) and surgery (100%) conducted by a male, though some would have preferred a female for mammography (25%), ultrasound (24%) and surgery (12%). A total of 9% of women agreed to the statement 'If there were male radiographers I would not return for another screening appointment' and 9% agreed to the statement 'if I heard there could be male radiographers it would change my opinion of Breast Screening for the worse'. CONCLUSIONS This first Australian study investigating the perceptions of women to male radiographers in the breast screening arena suggest that a mix of male and female radiographers could be accommodated and indicates the need for a larger national survey.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - B Mackie
- School of Health Sciences, University of Newcastle, Australia
| | - M Alchin
- School of Health Sciences, University of Newcastle, Australia
| | - T Mooney
- Programme Evaluation Unit, National Screening Service, Kings Inn House, Dublin, Ireland
| | - P Fitzpatrick
- Programme Evaluation Unit, National Screening Service, Kings Inn House, Dublin, Ireland; UCD School of Public Health, Physiotherapy & Sports Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Environmental, structural and process barriers in breast cancer screening for women with physical disability: A qualitative study. Radiography (Lond) 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2016.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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