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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
Susan S. Thomas, PhD, MPH, Basic Biobehavioral Research Branch, National Cancer Insitute, 6130 Executive Boulevard, 4087-B, Bethesda, MD 20892-7363, 301-594-6642, thomassu@mail.nih.gov and Ranjita Misra, PhD, CHES, Health&Kinesiology Department, Texas A&M University, 4243 TAMU, 158P Read Building, College Station, TX 77843-4243.
Background. Asian Indians are the third largest group of Asian Pacific Islanders (APIs) residing in the United States. Given their genetic, ethnic, and cultural diversity, broad cancer related objectives for APIs might not effectively address unique needs in API subgroups. This study examines cancer prevention and screening practices of Asian Indian physicians. Sample and Data Collection. A random (nationwide) health survey was mailed to 1000 physicians who are members of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) during 1998-2000. A total of 254 physicians completed the survey (n=184 males; n=69 females). Data Analysis. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square, and T-tests were used to assess gender differences. Results. Mean age of the respondent was 51 years (SD + 9.8). The majority (> 95%) of respondents had lived in the U.S. for 23 years (SD+ 8.9), had a normal body mass index, and did not use tobacco products or consumed alcohol. However, physical inactivity was high (55%). Nutrition-related behaviors indicated that 31 to 48% met the Food Guide Pyramid’s recommendations for fruits, vegetables, low fat/cholesterol diet, and grains. Women were more likely than men to consume fruits and drink less alcohol. Cancer screening practices showed only 27% ever had a flexible sigmoidoscopy or fecal occult blood test. Only 72% and 56% of women, 40 years of age and older, had mammogram and Pap smear in the past year. Conclusion. There are areas of cancer prevention and screening in Asian Indian physicians that do not meet recommendations of leading health agencies.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to
Keywords: Cancer Prevention, Asian and Pacific Islander
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.