Cognitive motivations associated with screening mammography in Cyprus

Background This study examined the relationship between cognitive motivations, demographic characteristics, related preventive health behaviors, and intention to obtain a first screening mammogram among Greek Cypriot women. Methods This cross-sectional study took place at the outpatient clinics of the General Hospital of Nicosia during the fall of 1999. The participants were 293 women asymptomatic of breast cancer and with no previous mammographic experience. The Theory of Planned Behavior in conjunction with the construct of self-efficacy was used in the development of the questionnaire. The assessment also included demographic information, practice of other preventive health behaviors, and knowledge of breast cancer screening. Results Self-efficacy was the most significant determinant of initial screening mammography, followed by normative beliefs associated with the physician, family and close friends, and perceived behavioral control beliefs related to barriers to obtaining a mammogram. Educational level, time of last clinical breast examination, and status of breast self-examination were also strongly implicated in the explanation of initial screening mammography. Conclusions Insights into specific salient motivational cognitions and certain demographic characteristics or related preventive health behaviors are crucial to the development and implementation of effective intervention strategies.