Survivorship

Abstract

Latinas experience high rates of cervical cancer (CCA) in the U.S. This health-related quality of life (HRQOL) qualitative study was conducted with key informant and focus groups (N = 26). The results indicate that overall Latinas experience persistent concerns: Physical challenges including pain, and bladder, bowel, and sexual health problems; medical care barriers (e.g., difficulties accessing quality care, poor patient-physician relationship); functional issues including employment difficulties; and personal concerns including family and relationship burdens. Spiritual, familial, and cultural factors promote coping and well-being but may delay care seeking. In summary, Latinas diag-Kimlin T. Ashing-Giwa, Dianne E. Bohorquez, Judith S. Tejero and Manuela Garcia are all affiliated with the Center of Community Alliance for Research and Education, Division of Population Sciences, City of Hope, Duarte, CA. They are also affiliated with UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA. Geraldine V. Padilla is affiliated with the Department of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, CA. nosed with CCA face a burdensome survivorship experience. Increases in medical and psychosocial services are greatly needed for Latinas to improve cancer outcomes including HRQOL.

Key Words:

• Cervical cancer
• Latina women
• psychosocial oncology
• HRQOL