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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Salma N. Shariff-Marco, PhD, MPH, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, Applied Research Program, National Cancer Institute, 6130 Executive Boulevard, MSC 7344, EPN 7009c, Rockville, MD 20852-7344, 301.435.4986, shariffs@mail.nih.gov

Racial/ethnic disparities in cancer exist and while some groups have experienced decreases or a leveling off with respect to their cancer burden, others have experienced increases. Racism has been identified as a potential contributor to these disparities with limited research evaluating its role. Using cross-sectional data from the 2003 California Health Interview Survey, this study draws from over 30,000 adults representing 5 major racial/ethnic groups. Perceived racism is measured with questions about general exposure to racism and exposure within the health care context. Segregation is measured via Index of Dissimilarity and Exposure Index. Secondary cancer prevention includes participation in screenings for cervical, breast, colorectal and prostate cancers. Linear/ordinal regression and multilevel modeling are utilized for the individual level and multilevel analyses, as appropriate. Preliminary findings suggest that there are statistically significant associations between screening participation for cervical, colorectal and prostate cancers and perceived racism, in general, but no association between screening participation for breast cancer and perceived racism. Within the health care context, there are statistically significant associations between screening participation for breast, colorectal and prostate cancers and perceived racism, however, there is no association between screening participation for cervical cancer and perceived racism. Potential mediators and moderators include socioeconomic characteristics, access to care, psychosocial factors, and acculturation status. This research provides information on the role of perceived racism on preventive behaviors with a focus on cancer screenings. The research findings may support and inform health care setting interventions addressing discrimination and promoting cultural competency.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to

• Describe the range of perceived racism experienced in California across the major racial/ethnic groups.
• Assess the relationship between racism (perceived racism at the individual level and segregation at the county level) and cancer screening behaviors.
• Identify potential mediators and moderators of the relationship including socioeconomic position, access, immigration/acculturation status, and neighborhood characteristics between racism and cancer screening practices.

Keywords: Cancer Screening, Social Justice

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered

Handout (.ppt format, 875.5 kb)