Although rates of cervical cancer and related deaths have decreased drastically over the past 80 years, rates are still higher among Latinas compared to non-Hispanic white women. This is a result of Latinas having lower cervical cancer screening completion rates because of difficulty accessing healthcare (i.e. lack of transportation, inability to take time off from work, or finding childcare), fear of being diagnosed with cancer, language differences with provider, and embarrassment. Cervical cancer screening, also known as the Pap test, not only detects cervical cancer, but can also prevent cervical cancer by detecting abnormalities before they become cancerous. Narrative videos with relatable cultural storylines, infographics with statistical information, and motivational messages have been found to be effective at increasing knowledge about cervical cancer and motivating women to complete their Pap smear.
Read MoreAcknowledging people’s lived experiences of intersectional minority stress and how this shapes their mental health is critical to addressing health inequalities.
Read More