Invasive cervical cancer can be prevented using yearly Pap smears to identify and treat cervical dysplasia. The American Cancer Society recommends all women over 18, and any woman who is sexually active have an annual Pap. Screening is especially important among Hispanic women, whose rate of invasive cervical cancer is twice as high as non-Hispanic White women. Young women who are sexually active are at risk for infection, cervical dysplasias and cancer. According to an earlier study in El Paso, 26% of women between 18 and 24 reported never having a pap smear, and 30% of Hispanic women in that age range had never had a pap smear. The purpose of this study was to assess the beliefs and attitudes of young Hispanic women (aged 18-25) about cervical cancer screening and to assess their screening histories. The instrument was based on the Health Belief Model. This was a cross-sectional, face-to-face survey of 200 Hispanic women between the ages of 18 and 25 years in El Paso, Texas. Thirty percent had never had a Pap smear, although 80% were currently sexually active. Several factors were significantly associated with never having a Pap smear. These included lower acculturation level, unsure where to get a test, reporting that peers do not get tested, and believing the Pap test: is painful; is embarrassing; can impair virginity; is only for women who have had babies; is something her partner would not want her to get; and would make people think she was having sex.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, those in attendance will be able to: 1. Describe the barriers to cervical cancer screening in young Hispanic women. 2. Discuss possible program activities to increase screening in this group. 3. Explain the risk factors for cervical cancer.
Keywords: Cancer Screening, Hispanic
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.