Exploration of factors associated with perceived barriers to cervical cancer screening among Chinese American women

Abstract

This study explored factors associated with perceived barriers to Pap smear testing among Chinese American women (CAW). A total of 121 CAW, ages 21–65, living in California and Nevada completed a self-report questionnaire. Data included demographics, prior screening behavior, risk factors, and perceived barriers to screening. Logistic regression models revealed that participants with less education, and who have never been screened were more likely to report (I) worry about getting a Pap smear, (II) expense of a Pap smear, and (III) not knowing where to get a Pap smear. Partner’s resistance to the women’s participation in screening was another barrier among the never screened. Uninsured women were more likely to worry about getting a Pap test and embarrassment associated with getting a Pap test. Women who had never been screened, those with lower education, and those who were uninsured reported more barriers. Attention to these common and unique barriers may help address health disparities in screening rates. These findings reinforce the importance of literacy- and culturally-appropriate educational interventions designed for improving knowledge of cervical cancer and improving screening rates.