Exploring health literacy factors that may affect breast and cervical cancer screenings in the Hmong population of Oregon

Hmong women in the United States have been shown to have low rates of breast and\ud cervical cancer screening. The reasons behind these statistics are unclear. This study\ud explored possible health literacy factors that may be affecting low screening rates for\ud breast and cervical cancer in this population. A transcription of seventeen key informant\ud interviews with prominent Hmong community members in Oregon was analyzed using\ud content analysis. The participants’ responses reflected their beliefs about the entire\ud Hmong community in Oregon. Several main themes emerged. First, key informants\ud reported that the majority of Hmong use their friends and family as sources for general\ud medical information, as well as information specific to breast and cervical cancer.\ud Secondly, Hmong individuals are reluctant to talk about breast and cervical cancer due to\ud cultural values. Lastly, many Hmong may be unaware of the importance of breast and\ud cervical cancer screenings. This study provides insight into an underdeveloped research\ud area. These findings will be of use to future research that examines aspects of Hmong\ud breast and cervical cancer screening in greater depth