Abstract A118: Barriers and facilitators to cervical cancer screening among older Hispanic women living in San Antonio, TX

Abstract Background: Disparities among Hispanic women getting screened for cervical cancer compared to non-Hispanic White women continue to exist, despite Hispanic women having higher incidence and mortality rates of cervical cancer. Previous work has shown limited knowledge and awareness about cervical cancer and screening, low health literacy, and cultural aspects such as fatalism as barriers to screening. On the other hand, having health insurance, a family history of cervical cancer and religiosity have been found to facilitate cervical cancer screening among Hispanic women. Moreover, in Texas, research has shown that women older than 50 and Hispanic women have lower rates of screening. Methods: Informed by the social determinants of health framework, we are interviewing Hispanic women living in San Antonio, TX about their experiences regarding cervical cancer screening. Questions cover the areas of knowledge about cervical cancer and cervical cancer screening, and barriers and facilitators to cervical cancer screening. We have completed 11 out of 36 planned interviews. Data analysis is guided by applied thematic analysis techniques. Preliminary Results: Currently, ages range from 50 to 64 years old. Most women are married and half are retired. Preliminary analysis shows continued low levels of knowledge about cervical cancer and screening. Barriers include feelings of fear and embarrassment about the test, physician’s gender, and access to healthcare, such as issues with transportation. Facilitators include physician’s attitude, clinic reminders, and having health insurance. Conclusion: More research is needed to understand and address barriers and facilitators to cervical cancer screening in this age group. Targeted public health efforts, including educational and multilevel interventions, should continue to increase knowledge about cervical cancer, and acceptability and access to cervical cancer screening among older Hispanic women living in San Antonio, TX. Citation Format: Coralia Vázquez-Otero, Audrey Cordova, Rita Pedraza, Selena Baglini, Amelie G. Ramírez. Barriers and facilitators to cervical cancer screening among older Hispanic women living in San Antonio, TX abstract. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr A118.