"Abstract

Background

Latinas are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer at later stages than Non-Hispanic White women. Risk-based breast cancer screening offers a promising alternative to age-based approaches by prioritizing women at highest risk and reducing harms. Understanding the acceptability of a breast cancer risk assessment tool is essential for promoting uptake among Latinas.

Objectives

To explore the acceptability of performing a breast cancer risk assessment in community settings among Latinas residing in Maricopa County, Arizona.

Methods

Twenty-three Latinas aged 45 to 65 years old, and residing in Maricopa County in Arizona, participated in focus groups and individual interviews between November 2022 and May 2023. Qualitative findings were analyzed by a deductive-inductive approach.

Results

Participants stated no experience using the risk assessment yet overwhelmingly expressed acceptability. Participants reported that early detection of breast cancer was a strong motivator but acknowledged how community acceptability would depend on the implementation of the tool. Latinas indicated that the tool would be best received if offered by word of mouth, social networks, and by aid of trusted health providers, including Community Health Workers.

Conclusions

Latinas in Maricopa County portray an acceptability towards the risk assessment tool. Themes identified include the acceptability of breast cancer risk assessment and effective breast cancer risk assessment delivery in community settings. Potential strategies include using digital platforms (i.e., social media) and trusted health providers to disseminate the tool.

Trial Registration

Clinical Trial Registration: NCI202300465."