Barriers and Facilitative Conditions for Early Detection of Breast and Cervical Cancer in Central Illinois Latina Women
In the U.S., Latina women experience one of the highest rates of death from breast and cervical cancers (Selvin & Brett, 2003). In a literature review, Buki (1999) reported that previous research claims that women detect the illness at a late stage because they do not adhere to the recommended guidelines for early detection such as breast self-examination (BSE), clinical breast exam (CBE), mammograms and Pap smears. The U.S. health system includes various components for preventive behaviors that are largely absent in many Hispanic cultures. This study attempted to examine some barriers and facilitative conditions to early detection of breast and cervical cancer in central Illinois Latina women. Consequently, this study also explored the relationships between acculturation, levels of formal education, and adherence to early detection behaviors. Our sample of Latina women in central Illinois does not support an association between more education and higher screening rates, and the acculturation variable in our study was not significant related to screen practices among Hispanic women. There is a need for further research to identify factors that are most effective in motivating Latina women to perform early detection screening on a regular basis while also teaching them the corresponding procedures. Ways to foster self-efficacy among Hispanic women is an area of importance in future health promotion efforts.
School:
University of Puerto Rico at Río Piedras
Department:
Psychology
Research Advisor:
Lydia Buki
Department of Research Advisor:
Educational Psychology
Year of Publication:
2003