Conceptions of Pap Smears in South Asian Women

In the latest installment of our series on cervical cancer and South Asian immigrant women, we dive into the findings of the study “Reasons behind Low Cervical Screening Uptake among South Asian Immigrant Women: A Qualitative Exploration” on the comprehension of the cervical screening test’s true purpose.

One of the main takeaways from this study is that while many participants were familiar with the term “Pap test”, they lacked a clear understanding of its purpose. One participant shared,

“Maybe they would know, just like me, as I know that there is a Pap test, that ladies should get every 5 years and it stops this disease, so they should get it done. I think they would know more of the term Pap smear than cervical cancer.”

Another key finding was that there was limited understanding of the recommended age prerequisites and screening intervals for the test. Participants had a range of answers, from once every year, to every two years, to every five years. This highlights the need for better education and information on the importance of regular cervical cancer screenings.

Additionally, there were misconceptions about the test, with some believing that once they had a normal result, there was no need for further testing, or that if they had been vaccinated, they did not need the test. This further emphasizes the importance of education and accurate information on the purpose and necessary frequency of the cervical cancer screening.

It’s important to note that this lack of understanding and misconceptions are not unique to just South Asian immigrant women, but it’s crucial that we address and rectify these issues within our community. This study is just one step in shedding light on the barriers and challenges that South Asian immigrant women face in regards to cervical cancer screenings and prevention. We must continue to have open and honest conversations, provide accurate information, and work towards creating a more equitable healthcare system for all.

Listen to our special podcast episode on A Brown Women’s Guide to Pap Smears, where Dr. Vaidehi Mujumdar, an OBGYN answers all our questions about these vital cervical cancer screenings!