Prevalence and correlates of breast and cervical cancer screening among a Midwest community sample of low-acculturated Latinas.

BACKGROUND

Low adherence to cervical and breast cancer (CBC) screening recommendations contributes to high CBC mortality among Latinas.

PURPOSE: To estimate the prevalence of, and factors associated with, last 12-month Pap smear and mammogram receipt among a Midwest community sample of low-acculturated Latinas.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study with 278 Latina immigrants in Dane County, Wisconsin. Participants completed a self-administered questionnaire. We estimated multivariate logistic regression models to identify factors associated with CBC screening receipt.

RESULTS

Rates of last 12-month Pap smear and mammogram receipt were 56.8% and 39.4%, respectively. Age, knowledge of screening recommendations, and having a regular health care provider were independently associated with both Pap smear and mammogram receipt. Having ever used Planned Parenthood and fear of cancer were uniquely correlated with Pap smear and mammogram receipt, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Modifiable individual, structural, and cultural factors contribute to suboptimal rates of CBC screening among low-acculturated Latino immigrants.