Common psychosocial factors underlying breast cancer screening and breast cancer treatment adherence: a conceptual review and synthesis

J Womens Health (Larchmt). 2007 Jan-Feb;16(1):11-23. doi: 10.1089/jwh.2006.0024.

Abstract

In this paper, we review the literature on psychosocial influences on breast cancer screening and treatment adherence with an eye to identifying common cognitive, emotional, and social network factors that may lead to poor screening adherence and suboptimal treatment in the case of diagnosed breast cancer. Nonadherence to breast cancer screening and treatment guidelines can significantly and negatively impact the prospects for prevention and control of breast cancer. Psychosocial factors are an especially important focus for research, inasmuch as belief structures and psychosocial characteristics (such as patterns of emotion regulation and the quality of social relations) are modifiable and are, thus, eminently suitable to intervention.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Breast Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Breast Neoplasms / psychology*
  • Breast Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Female
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Humans
  • Mass Screening / psychology*
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care / psychology*
  • Patient Compliance / psychology*
  • Patient Education as Topic / organization & administration
  • Professional-Patient Relations
  • Social Support*
  • United States
  • Women's Health
  • Women's Health Services / organization & administration