Oral

Appalachia is a region defined by proximity to the Appalachian Mountains and is characterized by low socioeconomic levels, higher poverty levels and unemployment, and barriers to health care. These factors contribute to the high rates of chronic diseases including cancer. Cervical cancer, a preventable disease, is especially problematic in Appalachia with higher mortality and incidence rates compared to the United States. Known risk factors for cervical cancer, such as infection with Human Papillomavirus (HPV), cigarette smoking, engaging in risky sexual behaviors and lack of Pap smear screenings are not currently well-characterized in this population.

Session Objectives: The goal of this session is to present information collected from the Community Awareness, Resources and Education (CARE) project which is focused on understanding and addressing the high cervical cancer rates in Appalachia Ohio. After attending this session, participants will be able to: 1. Describe how lack of knowledge and awareness of cervical cancer prevention strategies influence Appalachian women. 2. Discuss the socioeconomic barriers Appalachian women experience that impact factors related to cervical cancer prevention. 3. Explain two new concepts, the Appalachian identity and the CARE cervical cancer risk scale, which may help in future cancer research in this population.

CE Credits: CME, Health Education (CHES), Nursing