Effects of three educational intervention methods on repeated mammography among non-adherent women in Sanandaj

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of three tailored interventions for repeated mammography among non-adherent women using the Health Belief Model as a theoretical framework.

In this randomized trial, 360 women (≥50 years) from Sanandaj, were randomly divided into 4 groups. Intervention groups were pamphlet group, face to face counseling group, telephone counseling group and the 4th group was control group. All groups were compared with one another before the intervention, 2 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months after the intervention. Data were analyzed by using SPSS software. The statistically significant level was considered as p<0.05.

Demographic characteristics (age, education, and income) were not significantly different before the intervention (p> 0.05). In terms of perceived susceptibility, severity, benefits, and barriers to mammography, mean scores of intervention groups had statistically significant differences six months after the intervention (p<0.01). The highest rate of repeated mammography (50%) was observed in the face to face counseling group.

This study provided empirical support for the Health Belief Model as a framework to conduct repeated mammography. In addition, face to face counseling was the most effective way.