Primary care cancer and diabetes complications screening of black women with type 2 diabetes

PURPOSE: To determine the frequency with which Black women with type 2 diabetes receive routine primary health care screening for cancer and diabetes complications. DATA SOURCES: Pilot study data from a convenience sample of 21 Black women (mean age 46.8 years) with type 2 diabetes. CONCLUSIONS: Cancer screening consisted of Pap smear, mammography, and colon cancer screening consistent with current American Cancer Society recommendations. Ninety percent reported having had a Pap smear, 86% mammogram and 33% colon cancer screening. Diabetes complications screening was based on the American Diabetes Association care recommendations. Fifty-five percent received screening eye exams, 40% were screened for renal proteinuria, and 50% received foot examinations and diabetes foot care instruction. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: This sample of mid-life, Black, educated, working women with type 2 diabetes utilize healthcare services and have high rates of primary care cancer screening. Rates of diabetes complications screening are less than optimal. Because Black American women suffer disproportionately high rates of diabetes and related complications, it is imperative that they receive quality diabetes care in an effort to improve health outcomes and decrease premature mortality.