Design and outcomes of a community trial to increase pap testing in pacific islander women

Abstract

Background: Pap tests remain an essential cervical cancer detection method in the United States, yet they are underutilized among Pacific Islanders (PI) who experience elevated cervical cancer incidence and mortality. This study describes the design, methods, participants, and outcomes of a multiyear (2010-2016), community-based randomized intervention trial in southern California. Based upon strong collectivistic norms, the trial tested the efficacy of a unique social support intervention targeting Chamorro, Samoan, and Tongan women and their male husbands/partners. Methods: A single-session educational intervention was designed and tailored for ethnic- and gender-specific groups to increase men's social support for their female wives/partners to receive a Pap test, and for women to receive a Pap test. The comparison group received preexisting brochures on Pap testing (for women) or general men's health (for men). Pretest and 6-month follow-up data were analyzed. Results: Intervention and comparison groups were mostly equivalent on pretest demographics and outcome variables. Intervention women who were not compliant with Pap screening recommendations at pretest were significantly more likely to have scheduled and received a Pap test at 6-month followup. However, 6-month follow-up results indicated no intervention effect on changes in women's Pap testing knowledge, fatalistic attitudes, or perceived social support from their male partner. Conclusions: Ethnic- and gender-tailored community interventions can successfully increase Pap test behaviors for PI women, although more research is needed on the specific pathways leading to behavior change. Impact: Collaborative community-based interventions lead to increases in women's cancer prevention and early detection for Pacific Islander and other collectivistic communities.