Background
Recent survey evidence indicates a decline in mammography use among older women.
Purpose
The objective of this study was to detect sensitivity of self-reported mammography
use and pose evidence-based suggestions to increase survey accuracy.
Methods
Using the 1991–2006 Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey, 15,357 women, aged ≥65 years,
were selected based on use of mammography services. The women were interviewed in
the community setting at random periods after screening and asked, Have you had a mammogram or breast X-ray since [today's date or previous supplement
round interview date] a year ago? Statistical analyses were conducted between March 11 and April 28 of 2008. This study
tested whether sensitivity (i.e., probability of an affirmative response) was dependent
on length of the recall period and on respondent demographic and socioeconomic characteristics.
Results
Overall, 90.4% of the older women self-reported use; however, sensitivity decreased
as the recall period lengthened (90% at 6 months, 80% at 12 months). This time effect
was significantly higher among older, economically disadvantaged women. Sensitivity
also decreased an additional 13.8% if the event occurred in the previous calendar
year, and 3.5% if conducted in a non-English language or by proxy.
Conclusions
Greatest sensitivity occurred during the 6-month period after service without straddling
calendar years. These findings may aid the tailoring of future surveys for older adults,
improving the recall of preventive services.
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© 2009 American Journal of Preventive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
