Barriers and Drivers of Cervical Cancer Screening in Gonaives, Haiti [08C

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Cervical cancer is the most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer deaths in Haitian women. Early detection with early treatment that is completed at one clinic visit is an important strategy to target cervical cancer incidence and mortality rates but it is an underutilized resource. METHODS: An explanatory sequential mixed-method design is being used for a stratified sample of 200 women, ages 25 years and older, in Gonaives, Haiti. IRB approval was received and each participant consents to participate. Interviews estimate the proportion of women who have received cervical cancer screening. Quantitative data collected includes socio-demographic background and barriers to screening. Twenty women sampled from the quantitative population are to be interviewed about perceived barriers to screening. Ten healthcare providers will be interviewed about the challenges of cervical cancer screening in the community. RESULTS: Data has been analyzed from 58 participants, 88% are aware of cervical cancer, 21% have had screening and report no family history of cervical cancer. Of the 79% who had not been screened, 8% had a family history of cervical cancer, 92% do not consider a $5 fee as a barrier, 25% admitted fearing screening, 38% need partner approval, 96% state access to treatment influences their decision to screen, 50% prefer not to know if they have cervical cancer. CONCLUSION: Access to treatment is a strong predictor for cervical cancer screening. The results of this social research address the implementation and barriers of cervical cancer screening efforts for vulnerable populations in developing countries with limited resources.