Cervical Cancer (Nursing)

Excerpt

Cervical cancer continues to be listed among the top gynecologic cancers worldwide. According to current data, it is ranked fourteenth among all cancers and fourth-ranked cancer among women worldwide. Cervical cancer intervention focuses on primary and secondary prevention. Primary prevention and screening is the best method to decrease the burden of cervical cancer and decrease mortality.

Targeted education, screening, and intervention can reduce the burden of disease. Like many diseases and cancers, disparities exist in screening rates, early diagnosis, and timely treatment. Screening rates tend to be less in low socioeconomic and low-resource areas with ethnic and age variations. Studies show that women with obesity and chronic disease may also have lower rates of cervical and breast cancer screening. A study on ethnic minority women in the United Kingdom reports several barriers to screening, including lack of awareness, fear, embarrassment, shame, and low perceived risk.

One study reviewing the barriers for Haitian women revealed socioeconomic barriers, language barriers, and a limited understanding of health and disease. In the United States, cervical cancer mortality is disproportionately higher for African American women. Since 2006, HPV vaccinations have been available to prevent cervical cancer. Vaccination can improve cancer death rates in underdeveloped countries where resources may not be available for routine screening and in populations with higher mortality rates.