Vietnamese women and pap smears: issues in promotion

Objective: Australian data indicate that Vietnamese-born women in Australia have a significantly higher incidence of cervical cancer than other Australian women. This study explored self-reported factors associated with Vietnamese-born women's participation in cervical screening. Method: A structured 60-item questionnaire was used to conduct an interview survey with 199 Vietnamese-born women over the age of 18 years and resident in Adelaide. Results: Eighty-seven per cent (87%) of the women had heard of a Pap smear and 75% had had a test at some time. Reported participation increased with age, education level, marriage and length of stay in Australia. The family doctor was the most important source of information about Pap smears and the majority of the women reported they would have a smear if recommended by their doctor. Friends and family were the second information source about cervix screening. Conclusions and Implications: These findings have clear implications for practice. Strategies to promote preventive health messages to this group of women should involve general practitioners and peer networks.