Perceptions of Overall Health and Recency of Screenings

Cancer Screening in Behavioral Health Care Programs

OBJECTIVE: Adults with serious mental illnesses have a lower life expectancy attributable to many factors including metabolic disorders and cancer. Access to cancer screening has been shown to decrease morbidity and increase chances of survival. This study examined access to cancer screening services among individuals with serious mental illnesses served by a community behavioral health care agency partial hospitalization program at four locations. METHOD: A self-administered paper-and-pencil survey was provided to adults attending partial hospitalization programs. The survey consisted of open- and closed-ended questions about utilization, access to, and barriers to cervical, breast, and colorectal cancer screenings. RESULTS: Surveys were completed by 136 individuals. Participant screening rates were above national rates for cervical and breast cancer but lower for colorectal cancer. The main cited barrier to receiving the screening tests was lack of physician recommendations. CONCLUSIONS: Psychiatric nurses are ideally suited to communicate with this population and other behavioral health care professions about the importance of these screenings. Communication should also advocate for improved education and increased support for cancer screenings to address this health care disparity.

Cancer Screening Among Peer-Led Community Wellness Center Enrollees

Growing evidence suggests health disparities exist in services for individuals with mental disorders served by the public mental health system. The current study assessed the use of cancer screening services among New Jersey residents in publicly funded mental health programs. Self-administered written surveys were completed by 148 adults using peer-led community wellness centers throughout New Jersey. Information was collected on (a) the use of breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screening services; (b) barriers to receiving preventive services; and (c) perceptions of overall health. More males than females participated in the study, with equal participation among White and African American individuals. Schizophrenia spectrum disorders were the most common self-reported psychiatric condition. Colorectal cancers had lower screening levels compared to those of the general population. Physicians not advising patients to complete tests emerged as a main cause of low screening rates. Wellness initiatives designed by peers collaborating with health care providers may improve adherence to preventive cancer screening measures.