Promoting Healthy Communities: The Role of Cultural Narrative in Keeping Korean Women Free from Cervical Cancer

Background: Korean women suffer disproportionately from cervical cancer. However, less than half get a Pap test according to recommendations. With early detection and the advent of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine, cervical cancer is both a curable and preventable disease. Purpose: To understand how a culture specific narrative, different from ones own, may transcend cultural boundaries; and impact Korean women's knowledge, attitudes and prevention behaviors regarding cervical cancer screening and the use of the HPV vaccine. Methods: A transdisciplinary team at the University of Southern California conducted two focus groups with English-speaking Korean American women between the ages of 25 and 45. Participant responses were video-taped, transcribed and content analysis was conducted to gauge acceptance and identify themes between the narrative and non-narrative focus groups. Results: Women in the narrative focus group reported being distracted by Spanish words occasionally used in the film, the Latino family dynamics portrayed in the film, and the information on HPV transmission. Across both focus groups women reported learning additional information about the prevalence, transmission and prevention of the HPV virus. Discussion: Korean women preferred an Asian culturally competent narrative (storyline). However, most participants thought women, regardless of ethnicity and who watched the narrative film, would be moved to get a Pap test and/or get vaccinated against HPV. While the narrative appeared to transcend certain cultural boundaries further research is needed to determine whether a failure to identify with fictional characters limits the ability of narratives to change relevant knowledge, attitudes and behavior.