Perceptions of breast cancer risk and cancer screening: A qualitative study of young, female Hodgkin's disease survivors

Background. Young female Hodgkins Disease (HD) survivors are at high risk for breast cancer following chest irradiation. We explored health perceptions, screening behaviors, and barriers of this population. Methods. Three focus groups and nine individual interviews (n = 22) were conducted. Results. Women expressed significant misperceptions about breast cancer risk and screening. Screening barriers included avoidance, insurance issues, and lack of physician support. Conclusion. Female HD survivors would likely benefit from tailored education that links current beliefs with their previous cancer experience. Education about cancer risk may be more effective if delivered in a health-promoting rather than disease -detection framework.