Cancer Control Study of Native American Women
A group of cancer control researchers plan to undertake a cross- cultural study of barriers to breast and cervical cancer screening among Native American women in an isolated region of the United States. The aim of the study was to characterize the prevalence and frequency of preventive behaviors and risk factors for cancer in this community. Further, the objective was to identify barriers to breast and cervical cancer screening. It is likely that members of the Native American population encounter substantial barriers to cancer screening linked to geographical isolation, rural residence, lack of transportation, poverty unemployment, lack of education, language barriers, lack of access to health care services, and cultural and attitudinal factors. This research is intended to provide background information that is necessary to design and evaluate future community outreach educational programs that are aimed toward increasing cancer screening in this underserved population.
In planning this study, the researchers conducted an in-depth interview with Native American women and local physicians. Focus groups were conducted with approximately 10 Native American women obtained from the target population with planned assist from the development questionnaire.
A cross-sectional survey of Native American women who were at least 18 years of age is also planned A structured questionnaire was developed for use in identifying barriers to breast and cervical cancer screening in this population. A mailing list of heads of households maintained by the Tribal Council was used to sample the potential respondents.
The interview form included questions about demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, general health status, personal and family history of cancer, screening mammography, clinical breast exams, Pap smears, colorectal cancer screening, health care utilization, access to health care, and health priorities for the community. With qualitative information obtained from the focus group sessions as a guide, detailed questions was included regarding a number of potential barriers facing this population. The questions addressed the extent to which lack of transportation and geographical distance from cancer screening sites prevented the women from obtaining mammograms and Pap smears, as well as fatalistic attitudes about cancer. Additional questions, addressed daily life concerns, perceptions about the value of health and about the value of taking specific actions to protect health, perceptions about the availability of preventive care, and knowledge and attitudes concern cancer and cancer screening.
Questions to be addressed in your case study:
1. What are the potential risk and benefits of the study to the members of the Native American
Community?
2. How can potential risks or harms be minimized in carrying out the research?
3. How can potential benefits to the Native American community be maximized by the researchers?
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