Perceptions of Cervical Cancer and Screening Behavior among Cambodian and Lao Women in the United States: An Exploratory, Mixed-Methods Study

Abstract

This concurrent mixed method study examined barriers to cervical cancer screening (CCS) among Cambodian and Lao women and mother-daughter communication about women's health, cervical cancer, and screening. We conducted seven focus groups with purposeful samples of Cambodian and Lao women in the Midwest. The participants completed a survey on health characteristics and attitudes about CCS. Focus group data were analyzed using content analysis, and survey data were analyzed calculating descriptive statistics and bivariate hypothesis testing. Predominantly, women spoke about modesty, privacy, and screening only if symptoms were present. More Lao than Cambodian women reported having ever had a Pap smear, significantly higher knowledge about, and greater positive support for completing Pap smears from health providers, family, and friends. Results show cultural similarities among mothers and daughters in communication about women's health, but cultural and generational differences in knowledge, intent, and beliefs about cervical cancer and screening.