Addressing the Barriers to Cervical Cancer Prevention Among Hispanic Women.

OBJECTIVE: Cervical cancer in the USA has transformed from a leading cause of cancer death, to a now largely preventable disease. Despite these advances, however, certain segments of the population, including Hispanic women, continue to be at increased risk.

METHODS: A literature review was performed to summarize epidemiologic trends and barriers to care affecting Hispanic women.

RESULTS: Hispanic women suffer a disproportionate burden of cervical cancer in the USA. The reasons why Hispanic women remain at increased risk are multifactorial and include resource limitations within the healthcare system. Language, cultural, and knowledge barriers also play a significant role.

CONCLUSIONS: The greatest modifiable risk factor for the development of cervical carcinoma is non-compliance with recommended preventative care, yet the reasons why women fail to receive this care are varied. A multi-faceted approach to risk reduction is needed, including improved health care access, population-targeted outreach, language-appropriate services, and culturally competent care.