Demographics, self-efficacy, benefits/barriers, stages of adopting pap testing among Korean American women

AbstractKorean American women (KAW) experience the third highest incidence rate of cervical cancer among nine major Asian Americans. This study examined cervical cancer screening among KAW using constructs from the transtheoretical model (TTM). Using a cross-sectional survey design, 102 KAW aged 21–65 years of age were recruited through convenience sampling. Twenty-seven per cent of participants reported of never receiving a Pap smear. Women who were older and married were more likely to report being in the action/maintenance stages; women who perceived themselves to be in poor health were less likely to be in the action/maintenance stages. Higher self-efficacy and lower perception of barriers were significantly associated with more advanced TTM stages. The perceived benefits were not statistically different across TTM stages of change. A special attention should be given to young and unmarried KAW to increase screening participation.Impact statementWhat is already known on this subject? The utilisation o...