Oncology Nursing Forum
Volume 34, Issue 6, 2007, Pages 1203-1209

Cervical cancer beliefs and pap test screening practices among Chinese American immigrants (Article)

Lee-Lin F.* , Pett M. , Menon U. , Lee S. , Nail L. , Mooney K. , Itano J.
  • a School of Nursing, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States, College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
  • b College of Nursing, University of Utah
  • c College of Nursing, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, United States
  • d Department of Sociology, University of Victoria, Canada
  • e School of Nursing, Oregon Health and Science University
  • f College of Nursing, University of Utah
  • g Department of Academic Planning and Policy, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, United States

Abstract

Purpose/Objectives: To examine beliefs and Pap test utilization among Chinese American women, the largest Asian female population in the United States. Research Approach: Cross-sectional descriptive, correlational study. Setting: Metropolitan areas of Portland, OR. Participants: 100 foreign-born Chinese women aged 40 years and older. Methodologic Approach: Three questionnaires were modified, translated, combined, and pretested. Participants completed the self-administered questionnaire in a group setting. Main Research Variables: Utilization of Pap test screening, health beliefs, and cultural and sociodemographic variables. Findings: Sixty-eight percent reported having a Pap test within the prior three years (adherence), and 84% reported ever having a Pap test. The odds of Pap test use and adherence decreased with increasing age. Women with insurance or a regular healthcare provider had better odds of Pap test use and adherence. Older age, older age when a participant moved to the United States, and increased modesty were negatively associated with ever having had a Pap test. Conclusions: Age and cultural beliefs influence Pap test use and adherence. The strength of provider recommendation and healthcare access as predictors suggest areas for interventions designed to increase screening for cervical cancer. Interpretation: Nurses play a vital role in preventive health care, especially with the growing number of advanced practice nurses delivering primary care. Primary healthcare providers should be reminded of their influential role in increasing adherence to cancer screening. Further health policy action is necessary to extend screening coverage to those who do not have adequate health insurance.

Author Keywords

[No Keywords available]

Index Keywords

Vaginal Smears cultural anthropology human middle aged pathology Aged Cross-Sectional Studies cross-sectional study Humans Asian Americans Asian American female Aged, 80 and over questionnaire Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice Article Questionnaires adult migration Uterine Cervical Neoplasms Utilization Review uterine cervix tumor Transients and Migrants attitude to health Culture vagina smear
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-38549173704&doi=10.1188%2f07.ONF.1203-1209&partnerID=40&md5=dea73217a5fcb76af4cf005f144629b2
DOI: 10.1188/07.ONF.1203-1209
ISSN: 0190535X
Cited by: 43
Original Language: English