Tools for the assessment of breast cancer screening beliefs in women: a literature review

Abstract

Aim: This review aims to compare the development, characteristics and validity of three widely used breast cancer screening belief tools (the Champion’s Health Belief Model Scale [CHBMS], the Breast Module of a Cancer Awareness Measures [BCAM] and the Breast Cancer Screening Beliefs Questionnaire [BCSBQ]). Materials & methods: Literature reports were retrieved from electronic databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library, and other references. All three tools had good reliability and validity. Certain significant differences between these tools should be noted. Results: CHBMS, BCAM and BCSBQ are valid and reliable instruments within certain populations. Due to the high heterogeneity among the targeted population, their characteristics and those of the instruments should be fully considered for clinical decision-making. Conclusion: The conclusion of this review contributes to the development of a more comprehensive and objective instruments based on the deficiencies of the existing studies.