Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #111695

Jill M. Abbott, MPH, DrPH, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, A350B Starling-Loving Hall, 320 W. 10th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, 614-293-8174, abbott.34@osu.edu, Karen Ahijevych, PhD, OSU Colleg of Nursing, 1585 Neil Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, Mary Ellen Wewers, PhD, MPH, School of Nursing, The Ohio State University, 1585 Neil Ave., Columbus, OH 43210, Kenneth Steinman, PhD, School of Public Health/Division of Health Behavior and Health Promotion, Ohio State University, 320 West 10th Avenue, B-215 Starling-Loving Hall, Columbus, OH 43210-1240, and Electra D. Paskett, PhD, OSU School of Public Health and Comprehensive Cancer Center, 320 West 10th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210.

Background: Since its introduction in 1941, the Pap test has contributed significantly to early detection and prevention of cervical cancer. Although Pap test screening has increased dramatically in recent decades, Ohio Appalachia women continue to experience higher cervical cancer incidence and mortality compared to other Ohio residents and women nationally. Further understanding of the multiple factors that affect a woman's decision to have a Pap test can increase the effectiveness of programs seeking to promote this behavior. Methods: Thirty-five Ohio Appalachia female residents participated in one of five community focus groups conducted by trained facilitators. Discussion topics addressed factors related to cervical cancer, including screening, smoking, and attitudes and beliefs about cancer. The tape-recorded focus groups were transcribed and analyzed to identify facilitators and barriers to Pap test screening. Results: Important barriers women identified as reasons for not getting Pap tests at appropriate intervals included mistrust of the healthcare system and provider, fear, lack of knowledge, negative attitudes and beliefs about the Pap test, embarrassment and competing life priorities. Women shared that knowledge of early cancer detection, positive attitudes and beliefs about the Pap test, and encouragement from healthcare providers and significant others were important factors that promoted Pap test screening. Conclusion: Insight into facilitators and barriers for Pap test screening among Ohio Appalachia women reveals implications for educational programs that can increase screening rates and ultimately reduce cervical cancer incidence and mortality among this underserved population.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the presentation, the participant will be able to

(
• Identify facilitators associated with Pap test screening among Ohio Appalachia women; (
• Identify barriers associated with Pap test screening among Ohio Appalachia women; and (
• Explain how these factors can be incorporated into an educational program to increase Pap test screening rates.

Keywords: Cervical Cancer, Women's Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.