Publication Date
5-2024
Date of Final Oral Examination (Defense)
3-6-2024
Type of Culminating Activity
Thesis
Degree Title
Master of Public Health
Department Filter
Community and Environmental Health
Department
Public and Population Health
Supervisory Committee Chair
Ellen Schafer, Ph.D., MPH
Supervisory Committee Member
Vinita Sharma, Ph.D., MPH
Supervisory Committee Member
Bozena Morawski, Ph.D., MPH
Abstract
Purpose
Explore relationships between health literacy, culture, accessibility and utilization of health care services, patient/provider communication, and “self-care” factors that influence cervical cancer prevention behaviors (i.e., HPV vaccination and screening) among Hispanic women between 40-65 years old living in Idaho. These factors were explored in relation to how participants obtained, processed, and understood information about cervical cancer and its prevention. Understanding these factors and potential relationships to health literacy is pivotal for tailoring effective communication strategies and interventions within this specific demographic.
Methods
Recruited (n=15) Hispanic women living in Idaho, between 40-65 years old, to participate in a semi-structured qualitative interview in either English or Spanish via telephone, Zoom, or in-person. Using thematic analysis and snowballing sampling.
Results
Three themes emerged: (1) I do it but I don’t know why, (2) Internet or bilingual providers over interpreters, and (3) Reminders are important. Insights from this study highlight critical areas for targeted education and interventions to enhance understanding and foster trust among this demographic. By exploring health literacy and preventive behaviors related to cervical cancer, I revealed a notable lack of knowledge concerning cervical cancer, its significance, and the relationship between interpreters, health care providers, and participants that needs further exploration.
Conclusion
Recognizing the association between health literacy and preventive behaviors related to cervical cancer is crucial. This study revealed a notable lack of knowledge concerning cervical cancer, its significance, and the rationale behind undergoing Pap smears among Hispanic women (n=15) in Idaho. Findings from this study can provide insight into the underlying reasons for engaging in preventive behaviors.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.18122/td.2234.boisestate
Recommended Citation
Flores, Delmy, "Health Literacy and Cervical Cancer Prevention Behaviors Among Hispanic Women in Idaho" (2024). Boise State University Theses and Dissertations. 2234.
https://doi.org/10.18122/td.2234.boisestate
