Cancer Control Research
5R01CA052977-05
Simpson, Diane M.
MUJERES PROTEASE/WOMEN PROTECT YOURSELF-CANCER SCREENING
AbstractThis Project seeks to develop, implement and evaluate a cervical and breast
cancer awareness and prevention program in El Paso. Using a community
approach, this Project aims to 1) increase the availability and utilization
of breast and cervical cancer screening among older, low income women 2)
identify and reduce financial, educational, and cultural barriers to
screening 3) identify and rectify if necessary, gaps in the current
cervical cancer screening system and 4) educate health care providers
regarding the availability and importance of breast and cervical cancer
screening.
To accomplish these objectives, a consortium of community agencies,
regional, and local health departments will be established to coordinate
existing resources and seek new resources for this Project in El Paso. The
Texas Department of Health will serve as the control community. Prior to
intervention, surveys in both communities will be conducted to gather
baseline data on knowledge, attitudes, and practice of breast and cervical
cancer screening and use of medical care services among older, low income
women. In addition, a physician survey will be conducted in both
communities to obtain information on practices related to breast and
cervical cancer screening. An analysis of cervical cancer screening system
in El Paso will be accomplished by tracking incident cases of cervical
cancer utilizing medical pap smear records. Reasons for failure to prevent
this cancer will be documented.
The intervention plan will utilize a proven model to motivate and support
health behavior changes in low income, ethnic populations. Community
outreach is accomplished through the use of mass media "modeling" campaigns
and community volunteer networks. The consortium in El Paso will assist in
providing or increasing mammography and pap smear screening, diagnostic,
and treatment services. Health care provider education will focus on
breast and cervical cancer services and recommendations. Comprehensive
follow-up procedures for clients through the El paso health system are
planned. Evaluation of the effectiveness of the intervention will include
post baseline surveys and use of cancer registry information. Process
(e.g. number of radio ads) and impact (e.g. number of mammograms) measures
will be tracked and summarized for the Project period.
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