The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #65340

Elva M. Arredondo, MA¹, Kathryn pollak, PhD², and Phillip costanzo, PhD¹. (1) Department of Psychology, Duke University, 3066 Ivy St., San Diego, CA 92104, (619)284-6731, ema2@duke.edu, (2) Duke University Cancer Comprehensive Center, Duke University, 234 Hanes House, Durham, NC 27710

Introduction: Research shows that Latina immigrants are more likely to die from cervical cancer compared to Caucasian women. Mainstream theories exploring health behavior have not been examined with Latinas. The goals of the study are to: 1) examine the effectiveness of a stage model in predicting behaviors that prevent cervical cancer related mortality using a quantitative framework, and 2) evaluate the role of psychosocial/cultural barriers in impeding progress toward behavior change.

Methods: Research was comprised of two phases. In the first phase, measures traditionally used with Caucasian samples were translated and validated. In the second phase, one-on-one structured interviews with one hundred ninety-two monolingual Spanish-speaking Latinas from various stages [1) Never 2) Infrequent and 3) Frequent Pap smear] were conducted.

Results: Analyses of Variance revealed that Latinas in different stages (predictor) differed on demographic and psychosocial/cultural factors (outcomes). Latinas in earlier stages were more (p<.05) likely to be younger, poorer, and less acculturated in comparison to Latinas in later stages. Moreover, cultural and psychosocial factors (cons and fear of cancer) decreased (p<.05) with increased stage. Latinas who had never had a Pap smear differed mostly from those who had at least one Pap in the past 2 years.

Discussion: Results suggest that a stage model may be useful in predicting cervical cancer screening in Latinas. Both, psychosocial/cultural and demographic variables played a significant role. Findings from the current study will inform intervention researchers in developing culturally appropriate educational and intervention methods for Latinas.

Learning Objectives:

• 1) Recognize the impact of cultural/psychosocial barriers on cancer screening behaviors in Latinas.
• 2) Describe the factors that predict cancer intervention attendance in Latinas.
• 3) Be able to develop more culturally appropriate cancer interventions for Latinas.
• 4) Evaluate the characteristics of Latinas who take cancer precautions.

Keywords: Cancer Prevention, Hispanic

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.