Cultural beliefs influencing cervical cancer screening behaviors among Asian Indians in the U.S.

While Asian Indians (AIs) are among the top three fastest-growing Asian minority populations in the United States, they fall short of the Healthy People 2020 cervical cancer screening target goals, with rates averaging approximately 70% compared to 83% among non-Hispanic Whites (American Cancer Society, 2016). Also, most cervical cancers can be prevented by the HPV vaccine. Therefore, purpose of the study was to explore the influence of cultural beliefs on cervical cancer screening (known colloquially as a pap smear) behaviors and HPV vaccinations among AIs. A qualitative descriptive ethnographic design was used to explore the cultural impact on cervical cancer screening behaviors among Asian Indian women (AIW). A purposive sample of 15 AIW aged 21 to 49 were interviewed. Data analysis revealed five themes that influenced cervical cancer screenings (pap smears) among these women, namely locus of control, concept of health, “no sex before marriage,” awareness, and body image. A strong internal locus of control, a sense of being healthy, awareness (i.e., knowledge about cervical cancer and its prevention), and a positive body image facilitated cervical cancer screening behaviors. An external locus of control, belief that health is not a priority, “no sex before marriage,” and a low body image became barriers to cervical cancer screening behavior. Despite AIWs’ cultural beliefs, being employed, having health insurance, and receiving recommendations from their providers each had a positive influence on cervical cancer screening. Infections from the human papilloma virus (HPV) is a major cause of cervical cancers. Awareness about human papillomavirus (HPV) and recommendation from providers increased the likelihood of receiving and/or giving permission for their children, both boys and girls, to get the HPV vaccine. Lack of or limited knowledge about HPV and the concept of “no sex before marriage” were barriers to receiving and/or giving permission for their children to receive HPV vaccinations. This study’s findings revealed current issues with cancer prevention educational programs. The findings also inform future research regarding the development of culturally-sensitive educational interventions to address cervical cancer screening behaviors among AIW.Nursin