Cancer screening practices of Cajun and non-Cajun women in Terrebonne Parish, Louisiana

Abstract

A survey was undertaken to learn about cancer screening practices of adult women residing in Houma, Louisiana, many of whom are of Cajun descent. The women were identified using a telephone sampling procedure and interviewed about their use of screening mammography, clinical breast examinations, Pap smears, and other factors. Interviews were completed for 50 women aged 50 to 75 years. Forty-eight percent (24 of 50) were self-identified Cajuns, 34% were non-Cajun white, 14% were black, and 4% were of other races. Only 42% of the Cajun women and 41% of non-Cajun white women reported having had a mammogram in the last year. The Cajun women were less educated on average (P < .05) and were less likely to use cancer screening tests and more likely to smoke, although the latter differences were not significant (P > .05). In view of their geographical isolation and unique culture, more research is needed to identify barriers to preventive health services in Cajun communities.