Relationship of Women's Breast Cancer Fatalism Perceptions with Health Beliefs and Early Diagnosis Behaviors

Objective: This study aims to examine the relationship of women's breast cancer fatalism perceptions with health beliefs and early diagnosis behaviors. Method: This descriptive and relational design study was conducted with 400 women. Data were collected using the Personal Information Form', the 'Breast Cancer Health Belief Model Scale', and the 'Breast Cancer Fatalism Scale'. Results: Women who had high Breast Cancer Fatalism Scale mean scores were found to have low levels of breast self-exam (BSE) and clinical breast exam (p< .05). While a negative relationship was detected between health motivation, BSE benefits, BSE self-efficacy, and mammography benefits sub-scale scores of the Breast Cancer Health Belief Model Scale, a positive relationship was detected between susceptibility, seriousness, BSE barriers, and mammography barriers sub-scales and Breast Cancer Fatalism Scale scores. Conclusion: As a result, a negative relationship was found between women's breast cancer fatalism, health beliefs and early diagnosis behaviors. It is recommended that health professionals evaluate individuals' health beliefs and breast cancer fatalism perception level and take these factors into account in their education planning in order to increase women's screening behavior.