Elizabeth A Grunfeld | PubMed Health

PubMed2003

Perceptions of breast cancer across the lifespan.

OBJECTIVE: The risk of developing breast cancer increases with advancing age. There is evidence to suggest that delayed help-seeking for breast cancer symptoms is associated with poorer survival and that older women are more likely to delay in seeking help for such symptoms. This study examined age differences in beliefs regarding breast cancer and intentions to seek medical care for breast symptoms in a general population sample. METHOD: A general population sample of 546 women completed a postal questionnaire about beliefs regarding the symptoms, causes and outcomes associated with breast cancer, attitudes towards help-seeking and beliefs about one's ability to seek help. The questionnaire was based on components of the self-regulation model and the theory of planned behaviour. Help-seeking intention was measured by asking participants to rate the likelihood of visiting a general practitioner for a range of breast symptoms. The subscales of each model were entered as predictors of intention to seek help for breast symptoms in a series of hierarchical multiple regression analyses performed for each age group. RESULTS: The inability to correctly identify a range of potential breast cancer symptoms (identity subscale) was a significant predictor of intention delay in seeking help across all age groups. For women aged 35-54, negative attitudes toward medical help-seeking for breast symptoms (beta = 1.82, P < .05) and a negative belief in one's ability to seek help (perceived behavioural control) were additional predictors of intention not to seek help (beta = 0.229, P < .001). Holding negative beliefs about the consequences associated with breast cancer (i.e., that the disease could be potentially disabling or disfiguring) was found to be an important additional predictor of potential delay in help-seeking among women aged over 65 years (beta = 0.210, P < .05). CONCLUSION: Correct identification of potential breast cancer symptoms was universally important in predicting intention to seek medical care across age groups. However, additional beliefs differentially influenced help-seeking intention within different age groups. Preliminary findings suggest that interventions to reduce delay behaviour in help-seeking for breast symptoms should inform women of the diversity of breast cancer symptoms, advances in the management of breast cancer and provide advice on how to obtain help for breast cancer symptoms.

Adult↗

PubMed2002

Information within optometric practice: comprehension, preferences and implications.

The partnership approach to health care, in which patients take an active role in decision making, can potentially improve patient satisfaction and adherence to clinician recommendations. However, the process can be impeded by insufficient or poor-quality information provision. This study explored participants' understanding of, and requirements for, optometric information. Information leaflets were obtained from 12 optometry practices and four internet-based resources. Sixty-four patients/ clients participated in focus groups that explored: (1) their understanding of diagrams of visual function, (2) perceptions of good information, (3) information requirements and (4) perceptions of the effects of improved information. A theory-led thematic analysis identified three major themes within each of the four categories. The use of jargon and the inappropriate layout of diagrams and text impeded comprehension of the leaflets. High-quality information was defined as being written concisely with simple explanations and clear diagrams. There was also a preference for information to be relevant and applicable to the patient's own eye care needs. In addition, participants expressed a desire for both written and verbal information regarding eye examination procedures and interpretation of prescriptions. Advice regarding eye care was also requested. To facilitate a partnership approach and improve patient satisfaction, patients should be provided with jargon-free concisely written and clearly presented information. In addition to general information, patients would also benefit from personalised information regarding test results and eyecare regimes.

Humans↗