J Natl Med Assoc
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African American smokers (34% of males and 23% of females) need formal interventions to assist them in quitting smoking, a major method of preventing premature mortality from smoking-related illnesses. The purpose of this study was to examine African American primary care physicians' perceptions and practices regarding smoking cessation counseling. A national random sample (n=202) of primary care physicians was asked about their perceptions and practices regarding smoking cessation therapy. ⋯ Perceived barriers to engaging in smoking cessation interventions were time (38%) and patients not interested in quitting (19%). Although physicians used many of the steps in the 5 A's and 5 R's, they were far less compliant in recommending nicotine replacement therapy, prescribing pharmacotherapy, and providing support and/or follow-up for patients who were willing to quit smoking. Physicians need more academic preparation in providing smoking cessation counseling since few received such training in medical school (31%) or during their residency programs (18%).
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Comparative Study
Preferences for labor and delivery practices between pregnant immigrants and U.S.-born patients: a comparative prospective antenatal survey study.
To compare preferences in pregnant Somali and Sudanese immigrants with US-born women for different labor and delivery procedures and practices. ⋯ This prospective survey quantifies the differences in preferences for labor and delivery practices from two foreign populations and from U.S.-born women. This information is useful for all physicians who wish to better meet the needs of individual patients, especially those who are from different cultures and backgrounds.
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African Americans experience disproportionately higher morbidity and mortality from colorectal cancer (CRC), yet they complete screening at lower rates than Caucasians. While studies have identified barriers and facilitators to CRC screening among African Americans, no study has examined physician perceptions of these barriers. ⋯ Residents may be missing opportunities to more effectively communicate about CRC screening with their African American patients. Residents need more explicit education about African Americans' perceptions to successfully promote screening behaviors in this high-risk population.
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The purpose of this review was to better understand possible social, economic, cultural, behavioral, and systems barriers to breast cancer screening among minority women. ⋯ Multiple barriers limit screening mammography among minority women. Recognizing predictors of screening among minority women and addressing culturally specific barriers may improve utilization of screening mammography among these women.
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The relative effects of race/ethnicity and other sociodemographic factors, compared to those of attitudes and beliefs on willingness to have cancer screening, are not well understood. ⋯ Sociodemographic characteristics not only were related to willingness to have cancer screenings in almost all cases, but were generally much stronger factors than attitudinal barriers and facilitators. Cancer screening campaigns should affect attitudinal change where possible, but should also recognize that targeting screening to specific population groups may be necessary.