An exploratory study of health practices of American Catholic nuns.

American Catholic nuns represent a distinct segment of American women, yet little is known about their health practices. Assessment of health-related activities of these women was conducted by means of a self-report survey which was completed by 345 nuns in the midwestern United States. Although 53% had a complete physical examination in the last year, 11% had not had one for more than seven years, and 44% had not had a recent breast or pelvic examination. Thirty-seven percent did monthly breast self-examination (BSE), 37% examined themselves rarely, and 26% never performed BSE. Nuns performing BSE were more likely to have been examined by a health care provider in the past year (p less than .05). Nuns reporting a more positive health status said they got an adequate amount of sleep and participated in regular exercise, yet reported themselves to be overweight (p less than .05). Stress was reported by 74%, and an inverse relationship between perceived relaxation time and perceived stress level was noted (p less than .05). Overall, data reflected certain health educational and behavioral deficits. Because nuns comprise a chronologically older cohort than their secular counterparts, efforts that enable adoption of wellness practices and facilitate improved health care among these women seem to be warranted.