The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #48068

Ada M. Wilkinson-Lee, MS, Family Studies and Human Development, The University of Arizona, P.O. Box 210033, Tucson, AZ 85721-0033, (520)621-7127, adaw@email.arizona.edu

The purpose of the study was to identify the cultural, social and health care service factors that are associated with sexual risk behaviors among Mexican American women. A non-random sampling procedure was used and eligible and consenting persons were given a baseline assessment that consisted of a 13 page self-administered questionnaire. The self-administered questionnaire assessed demographics, sexual risk behaviors, health service barriers, cultural factors (familialism, traditionalism, religiosity, acculturation) and social factors (peer influences, self-esteem, social support, and self-identification). A total of 102 participants between the ages of 18 and 23 years old complete the self-administered questionnaire at a Planned Parenthood site located in Tucson, Arizona. Results indicated that self-esteem, traditionalism, religiosity, social support, and peer influences are associated with low risk sexual behavior. Results also indicated that 39.2% of the participants had not received yearly pap smears with the primary perceived barrier being that 46.1% did not have insurance and could not afford to pay for the procedure. This study demonstrated that moderate and high levels of acculturation were associated with participants receiving yearly Pap exams. This finding suggests the importance of acknowledging the diversity within the Mexican American community and addressing that diversity by tailoring programs to address the different levels of acculturation in the community. By identifying specific cultural factors that may play a role in the increase or decease of sexual risk factors, culturally appropriate programs can be developed that can help educate and reduce risky sexual behavior among this ethnic population.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the particant in this session will be able to

• Identify cultural factors that are associated with low risk sexual behavior among this sample of Mexican American women.
• Recognize perceived barriers to reproductive health care among this sample of Mexican American women.

Keywords: Minority Health, Sexual Risk Behavior

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: N/A
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.