Breast health information: messages that appeal to young women and older women of color.

BACKGROUND: In this study, we asked women directly for their information needs and format preferences related to breast cancer education. METHODS: Thirty focus groups were conducted nationwide with young women and women of color age 40 and older. RESULTS: Women wanted breast cancer messages to convince them that they are at risk and that screening is critical and to provide clear and detailed information about breast cancer and breast cancer screening guidelines. Women preferred to receive information from health care providers and media outlets. CONCLUSIONS: Women have a variety of suggestions related to breast cancer education that can be used in the development of educational interventions.