Application of the Transtheoretical Model to Cervical Cancer Screening in Latina Women.

This study examined the relationship between the intention to receive Pap tests for cervical cancer screening, as related to the transtheoretical model of behavior change, and self-efficacy, and perceived barriers and benefits among Latina women. A sample of 121 Latina women recruited from a University campus completed validated questionnaires. Over half the participants (62 %) reported engaging in regular cervical screening. The greatest self-efficacy scores were observed among women in the action/maintenance phase, and the least self-efficacy was observed among women in the no-intention phases of behavior change. There was also a gradient in perceived barriers and the stages of change, women in precontemplative/relapse perceived significantly higher barriers than those in contemplation/preparation and action/maintenance. This study identifies a high-risk group of Latina women and demonstrates a need for culturally targeted Pap screening interventions using validated and theoretically driven behavior change interventions focusing on perceived barriers and benefits, and self-efficacy.