Health communication, cultural sensitivity, and breast cancer screening brochures: The need for a best practices model

This study analyzed print breast health information and related research from cultural and practical perspectives to develop a best practices model for print communication, specific to breast health in varied ethnic populations. The connection between cultural beliefs and low mammography screening rates among several minority and ethnic groups was examined. The importance of culturally sensitive health communication as a means of improving compliance with national and local breast cancer screening goals was also explored. A lack of culturally relevant print information, limited resources, and cost constraints make it difficult for health educators working in multicultural environments to affect screening behavior. A print health communication best practices framework specific to breast cancer screening at the community level will allow health educators to more easily and cost-effectively disseminate relevant information to diverse populations.