Receipt of mammography among women with intellectual disabilities: Medical record data indicate substantial disparities for African American women

BackgroundLittle information exists on the receipt of mammography by African American women with intellectual disabilities. Given the high rates of mortality from breast cancer among African American women and low screening rates among women with intellectual disabilities, it is important to understand the health screening behavior of this population.ObjectiveWe compared rates of mammography receipt among African American and White women with intellectual disabilities (n = 92) living in community settings in one Southeastern state in the United States.MethodData were collected from women's medical records or abstraction forms obtained from medical practices. Multivariate logistic regressions were modeled for receipt of mammography in one year, one of two years, or both study years (2008– 2009). Covariates included the women's age, living arrangement, severity of impairment, and urban/rural residence location.ResultsIn 2009, 29% of African American women and 59% of White women in the sample received mammograms. Similar disparities were found for receipt of mammography in either 2008 or 2009 and both 2008 and 2009. These disparities persisted after inclusion of model covariates. White women with intellectual disabilities received mammograms at adjusted rates that were nearly three to five times higher than African American women.ConclusionAfrican American women with intellectual disabilities receive mammography at significantly lower rates than White women with intellectual disabilities. Assertive measures to improve the screening rates for African American women with intellectual disabilities are urgently needed.