"ABSTRACT

Introduction

Breast cancer remains a leading cause of death among Latinas. Although breast cancer risk assessment models exist and show promise in reducing mortality, few studies have elicited women's interest in and perceptions around breast cancer risk assessment, particularly among underserved populations, like Latinas, who are susceptible to disparities in breast cancer outcomes. These disparities stem from factors such as limited access to healthcare services, lower rates of screening utilization, language barriers, and socioeconomic challenges, all of which compound their risk and hinder effective engagement with risk assessment tools. This qualitative study aims to explore Latinas' perspectives regarding breast cancer risk assessment and implications on future behaviors.

Methods

Twenty-three under- or uninsured Latinas aged 45–65 with no personal history of breast cancer took part in either a focus group (n = 3, 15 participants) or individual interviews (8 participants). Guided by health behavior theories (Theory of Planned Behavior and Health Belief Model), data were transcribed, translated, and analyzed using a deductive-inductive approach to thematic content analysis, resulting in four themes.

Results

Latinas expressed high interest in knowing their breast cancer risk and reported that the benefits of knowing one's risk outweighed the harms. Latinas also stated that they would continue screening as recommended if found to be at low risk, but that they would speak with their provider or increase screening frequency if found to be at increased risk. Moreover, Latinas described the pivotal role of providers and social networks in influencing interest and perceptions around breast cancer risk assessment and preventive behaviors.

Conclusion

Underserved Latinas viewed breast cancer risk assessment positively and underscored the need for multilevel, culturally tailored strategies to improve breast cancer risk assessment. This study yielded four distinct themes: (1) Interest and Awareness of Personal Breast Cancer Risk, (2) Benefits and Barriers of Knowing Personal Breast Cancer Risk, (3) Screening Implications of Knowing Personal Breast Cancer Risk, and (4) Provider Influence on Breast Cancer Risk Assessment and Behaviors. Potential strategies include efforts to improve provider engagement and communication and leveraging social networks to increase awareness and encourage preventive behaviors.

Trial Registration

NCI-2023-00465"