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The primary purpose of this study was to ascertain tobacco control attitudes, practices, and level of involvement in tobacco activities funded by the California Tobacco Tax Initiative prior to and after implementation of statewide programs aimed at primary health care providers. In addition, the study compared the statewide results with a county where there has been widespread tobacco control activity aimed at health care providers. A 32-item questionnaire, developed to ascertain attitudes, practices, and policies related to tobacco contrml, was completed by 581 (35%) of the 1,680 statewide physicians contacted and 460 (31%) of the 1,500 county physicians contacted. Both cohorts who responded to the pretest questionnaire were resurveyed 1 year later Results of the two-way MANOVA revealed statistical significance on both main effects (county vs. state and pretest vs. post-test). Subsequent univariate F tests revealed statistically significant differences between groups on the set of variables measuring involvement in programs funded by Proposition 99. Results indicate that statewide tobacco control programs aimed at providers might be having an impact on physicians 'practices and level of involvement in tobacco programs.

Reports indicate that only 15%-20% of women 50 years of age and older have had a mammogram. To promote screening mammography, the San Diego County Unit of the American Cancer Society sponsored a community-wide program that featured (1) discounted mammograms through participating clinics, (2) program promotion through television news, and (3) availability of a phone bank for obtaining referrals for mammography. Pre- and postintervention random sample phone surveys indicated that women’s intentions to obtain a mammogram increased significantly after the media campaign, particularly in those aware of the program. Women’s intentions after the media campaign predicted mammography compliance in the following year. A total of 3,102 women received mammograms directly through the program, with a “suspicious finding” rate of 4%. Participant satisfaction with the program was high.

Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths among women in the United States. Although it has been well documented that the incidence of mortality from this disease can be reduced through early detection, only a small percentage of women actually comply with breast screening recommendations. Nurses are in an excellent position to educate women on the importance of early detection of breast cancer. This article discusses the motivating and inhibiting factors that influence a woman's decision to participate in breast screening activities, and suggestions are made for designing educational programs that take these factors into account. Emphasis is placed on the nurse's role in educating patients and the public about the importance of breast cancer screenings.