Friendship Circles for Health: A program addressing cervical cancer prevention among Latina immigrants

The incidence and mortality rates of cervical cancer among Latinas in the U.S. are much higher than among whites, and these rates are even higher among women in Latin America. In terms of primary prevention, it has been shown that the human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the most important contributing factor for cervical cancer, and that Latinas are five times more likely than white women to display an association between HPV infection and squamous intraepithelial lesions. In terms of secondary prevention, Latinas (particularly Latina immigrants) are less likely to get a pap smear than whites. However, to our knowledge, no studies have focused both on primary and secondary prevention of cervical cancer among Latina immigrants. Friendship Circles for Health is a theory-based and culturally relevant program with the overall goal of reducing cervical cancer among Latina immigrants via reduction of HPV infection risk and an increase in pap smear rates. This program is being tested through a group randomized trial. This presentation will focus on the development, piloting, and feasibility testing of Friendship Circles for Health (Circulos de Amistad para la Salud). Extensive formative assessments were conducted with the target audience, and feedback was provided to them on the findings. Through a participatory and systematic approach, the target audience assisted in the development of all components of the program. The program uses a combination of sociologic and cognitive behavioral approaches, taking into account the cultural beliefs, attitudes, and experiences of Latina immigrants in the United States.