Article

OBJECTIVE: To analyse contraceptive methods and the extent of screening for
breast and cervical cancer in women with neuromuscular disease, compare these
results with data and guidelines for the general population and determine the
environmental and attitudinal barriers encountered. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A
retrospective, descriptive study in a population of female neuromuscular disease
patients (aged 20 to 74) monitored at a clinical reference centre. RESULTS:
Complete datasets were available for 49 patients. Seventy percent used
contraception (hormonal contraception in most cases). Sixty-eight percent had
undergone screening for cervical cancer at some time in the previous 3 years and
100% of the patients over 50 had undergone a mammography. Architectural
accessibility and practical problems were the most common barriers to care and
were more frequently encountered by wheelchair-bound, ventilated patients.
CONCLUSIONS: In general, the patients had good access to contraceptive care and
cervical and breast cancer screening. However, specific measures may be useful
for the most severely disabled patients.

Langue : ANGLAIS ; FRANCAIS