Evaluation of a "loss-framed" minimal intervention to increase mammography utilization among medically un- and under-insured women

This study was conducted because mammography is under-utilized, even though it is the most effective early detection screening device for breast cancer. A loss-framed telephonic message based on prospect theory was evaluated for the effects on mammography utilization among medically un- and under-insured women living in demographically similar rural counties in Florida. The sample consisted mostly of White women (approximate to89%) 50-64 years old. Experimental group participants received the loss-framed message telephonically and those in the comparison group received the "usual telephone procedure." Logistic regression analyses revealed that women who received the loss-framed message were six times more likely to obtain a mammogram (OR = 6.6. P < 0.0001). The impact of the loss-framed message persisted even after adjustment for initial versus re-screen mammogram effects. This in-reach. loss-framed, minimal intervention seems to have viability and may serve as an alternative or adjunct program for encouraging women to receive mammograms. (C) 2002 International Society for Preventive Oncology. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.