Factors Influencing College Women's Gynecological Screening Behaviors and Intentions

Sexually transmitted human papilloma virus (HPV) is highly prevalent among adolescent and young adult women, and is causally associated with cervical cancer. Although the effectiveness of early detection of cervical cancer through Papanicolaou (Pap) screening and early treatment have resulted in a decrease in mortality from cervical cancer, many women do not have regular Pap smears. Information about the gynecological screening behaviors of adolescent and young adult women, who are at risk for HPV, is limited. In this study we examined 400 college women's attitudes, intentions, behavior, knowledge, and self efficacy regarding gynecological screening and Pap smears, as well as resources that might increase the likelihood of their engaging in gynecological screening behavior. Self efficacy and resources made the greatest contributions to the predictions of exam behavior.