Learning Objective #1: Identify the knowledge and perceived barriers among Korean couples in contemplation stage of BSE

Learning Objective #2: Understand the implications for establishing an effective couple-focused approach for breast cancer prevention

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Objectives: In order to promote the practice of breast self- examination (BSE), it is necessary to incorporate individual motivation levels and supports that facilitate women's health behavior. Support from spouse has been found to be beneficial to women's health, and to increasing the use of preventive health practices. The purpose of this study was to identify the knowledge and perceived barriers among Korean couples in contemplation stage of BSE. Design: A qualitative research design with focus groups was used. Sample and setting: There were 3 focus groups conducted in this study. A convenience sample of 15 couples in the contemplation stage in which wives of this stage never practiced BSE before but had intention to change agreed to participate. Each of focus groups was drawn from a church by flyers. Process: An unstructured interview conducted with open-ended questions. The clue questions asked were: "what do you know about BSE and breast cancer?" and "What are your reasons for not having practiced BSE?" The discussions lasted about 2 hours and continued until new information was not raised any more. Finding: None to report at time of abstract submission. Data analysis is on-going. Conclusions and implications: We anticipate that these findings will have implications for establishing an applicable and effective program to increase self-competency in BSE and presenting a model of a couple-focused approach for cancer prevention education.