The Use of the Ethno-Drama Experience to Increase Knowledge and Promote Cervical Cancer Health Related Behavior among People of Color

Abstract

Cervical cancer is a significant health disparity in the U.S. and is the second most common cancer in women worldwide [1]. African American women have higher mortality rates from cervical cancer compared to non-Hispanic white women [2]. There have been several interventions and prevention strategies implemented to educate women about cervical cancer. In previous studies, theater use has been used to address health disparities, increase knowledge, and has found significant increases in pro-social related health behaviors i.e., screening, treatment, vaccines [3]. The current study sought to evaluate the use of theater and a health educate panel as an intervention to increase knowledge, awareness, and pro-social health behaviors related to cervical cancer among participants in the surrounding communities. A standard pre/post-test design identified 101 participants in the ethno-drama experience about cervical cancer. The results of the data indicated that the ethno-drama intervention was effective in increasing cervical cancer health related behaviors.