Predictors of non-attendance from BreastScreen NSW in women who report current mammography screening

Abstract

Objective: To identify among self-reported current screeners: (1) predictors of never attendance at BreastScreen NSW (BSNSW); (2) predictors of late or lapsed attendance to BSNSW (attendance to alternative providers). Methods: Random samples of women aged 50-69 years were selected from the BSNSW database and NSW electoral roll as: current attenders to BSNSW (>27 months since last screen); late or lapsed attenders to BSNSW (>27 months since last screen); or women who had never attended BSNSW. The response rate was 71% (3,104) for a telephone interview that asked questions concerning demographics, medical status and health service usage, and opinions and behaviours related to mammography. Results: Never attendance at BSNSW was predicted by higher income, advice from a doctor or nurse to have their last mammogram, recent clinical breast examination and belief that a referral letter is necessary. Late or lapsed attendance to BSNSW (and attendance to alternate providers) was associated with higher education, health insurance coverage, recent clinical breast examination and a family history of breast cancer. Conclusions: Currently screened women who do not attend BSNSW, or who are late or lapsed for a mammogram, appear to be influenced by referral patterns of their health care providers and their higher socio-economic status. Implications: BSNSW should be promoted to eligible women and general practitioners as a specialty mammography screening service that does not require a referral.