Korean Immigrant Women’s Perceptions and Behaviors of Cervical Cancer Screening in Hawaii

Introduction: Minority immigrant women are more likely to be diagnosed with and suffer from cervical cancer compared to other minority women in the United States. Purpose: The purpose of this qualitative ethnographic study was to explore cultural health perceptions and behaviors of cervical cancer prevention among Korean immigrant women (KIW) in Hawaii. Methods: The Health Belief Model (HBM) and the Social Ecological Model (SEM) were used to guide the study. Data were collected using individual structured interviews with 20 KIW ages 21 to 65. Data were coded and analyzed to identify themes. Result: Findings revealed that participants (a) prefer a female gynecologist and Korean-speaking physicians; (b) are highly motivated to maintain physical health, including prevention; (c) prefer culturally appropriate community-based cancer prevention programs; and (d) expect innovative health maintenance approaches. Conclusion: Findings may be used by health care providers to identify culturally specific health needs of KIW related to cervical cancer screening, and to implement appropriate preventive measures for KIW to reduce cancer death.