Jewish identity and intentions to obtain breast cancer screening

Cultur Divers Ethnic Minor Psychol. 2003 Feb;9(1):79-87. doi: 10.1037/1099-9809.9.1.79.

Abstract

This study explored the associations between 2 dimensions of Jewish identity (cultural identification and religious practice) and intentions to perform breast cancer screening. Ashkenazi Jewish women (N = 220) completed surveys as part of an ongoing study of breast cancer risk counseling. Multiple regressions examined the relationships between the 2 identity measures and intention to follow routine recommendations for mammography, intention to perform monthly breast self-exam, and interest in genetic testing for breast cancer susceptibility. Cultural identity positively predicted interest in testing, whereas religious identity was inversely related. Religious identity was a significant predictor of intention to adhere to mammography recommendations. Findings show that culture and religion, although correlated, may have different associations with health attitudes.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Breast Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Breast Neoplasms / ethnology*
  • Breast Self-Examination / statistics & numerical data
  • Culture*
  • Educational Status
  • Female
  • Genetic Testing / statistics & numerical data
  • Humans
  • Jews / genetics
  • Jews / psychology*
  • Mammography / statistics & numerical data
  • Mass Screening / statistics & numerical data*
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care / ethnology*
  • Regression Analysis
  • Religion and Psychology
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Washington
  • Women's Health