Factors Related to Health Practices: Cervical Cancer Screening Among Filipino Women

Abstract

This correlational study developed and tested theory to better understand health practices, including cervical cancer screening, among young Filipino women. It tested theoretical relationships postulated among (a) positive health practices, (b) cervical cancer screening, (c) social support, (d) acculturation, and (e) optimism. A convenience sample of 89 young Filipino women in an urban setting was obtained. Participants completed a demographic sheet and five instruments. Significant positive correlations were found between PHP and social support (r = .169, p <.05) and previous cervical cancer screening behavior (r = .285, p <.01) and cervical cancer screening frequency (r = .33, p <.01). Social support was not significantly related to cervical cancer screening. Previous cervical cancer screening behavior was significantly related to optimism (r = .285, p <.01) and screening frequency (r = .924, p <.01). Optimism was significantly related to positive health practices (r = .209, p <.05) and cervical cancer screening knowledge (r = .224, p <.05) but not significantly related to previous cervical cancer screening behavior or screening frequency. Findings contribute to a more comprehensive knowledge base regarding positive health practices, including cervical cancer screenings, among young Filipino women.