Cervical Cancer Risk: Sexual and Screening Behaviors Among Middle Eastern College Women in the United States

Abstract

Introduction:

This study examined factors associated with sexual and cervical cancer screening behaviors among Middle Eastern (ME) college women.

Methods:

This cross-sectional design included 406 college women of ME Arab background in the United States. Data were collected via an anonymous online survey. Analysis included regression models to identify predictors of sexual and screening behaviors.

Results:

The rates were 61% ever having sexual intercourse, 24% sexual debut <18 years, 44% having >1 sexual partner in lifetime, 50% condom use in last sexual encounter, 78% other contraception methods, and 25% ever having a Pap test. The composite cervical cancer risk score, based on these behaviors, was significantly lower among single undergraduates belonging to student/religious organizations and having liberal attitudes toward women and traditional views towards sexuality.

Discussion:

The study findings have implications for practice and research around sexual and screening behaviors related to cervical cancer among this population of young women on college campuses.

Keywords

Middle Eastern college women Arab American women cervical cancer risk college women risky sexual behaviors

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