Computer Science and Information Systems
Breast cancer is the leading cancer killer among women in the state of Utah. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC’s) Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), Utah has the second lowest mammogram rate in the nation. Mammograms reduce breast cancer mortality rates by increasing early detection of the disease when it is still curable. A quick binary logistic regression of the data completed for this presentation suggests that there at least three factors that are statistically significant for not receiving a mammogram: lack of a health plan, infrequent dentist visits, and age. Some counties including Millard, Summit, Tooele, Sanpete, and Uintah appear to be statistically significant factors. Other counties have low mammography rates, but too little data to be statistically significant including Beaver, Wayne Garfield, Paiute, Daggett, and Rich. By identifying patterns and analyzing correlations between variables, we may begin to understand why Utah women are not taking advantage of early detection in the form of mammography screenings. Our research has the potential to improve the attitude with which the topic of mammography is approached, and in doing so, save lives.