Factors that influence mammography use among older American Indian and Alaska Native women.

Introduction: American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) women have relatively high breast cancer mortality rates despite the availability of free or low-cost screening.

Purpose: This qualitative study explored issues that influence the participation of older AIAN women in mammography screening through tribally directed National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Programs (NBCCEDPs).

Methods: We interviewed staff (n = 12) representing five tribal NBCCEDPs and conducted four focus groups with AIAN women ages 50 to 80 years (n = 33).