Award Date

1-1-2007

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Public Health (MPH)

Department

Public Health

First Committee Member

Michelle Chino.

Number of Pages

75

Abstract

Numerous studies have revealed that African American women are at an increased risk for the development of cervical cancer. The purpose of this study was to assess the cervical cancer knowledge and disease prevention behaviors of African American women. This descriptive study utilized the Health Relief Model, which proposes that knowledge serves as a predictor of disease prevention behaviors. Fifty-two African American women were surveyed. Results revealed that 25.5% of respondents were cognizant of the fact that Pap smears screen for cervical cancer specifically. But, only 25.0% of study participants were able to identify HPV as the major cause of cervical cancer. As expected, 94.1% of participants undergo frequent Pap smears. However, 45.1% reported not using condoms. Odds ratio analyses revealed that women with accurate knowledge were more likely to participate in cervical cancer prevention behaviors. In addition, numerous misperceptions were identified, which point to the need for cervical cancer education and pubic health interventions within the African American community.

Keywords

Africa; American; Behaviors; Cancer; Cervical; Clark County; Knowledge; Nevada; Women

Controlled Subject

Public health; Oncology; Women's studies; Blacks--Study and teaching

File Format

pdf

File Size

1925.12 KB

Degree Grantor

University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Language

English

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