Decision making for Pap testing among Pacific Islander women

This study employed a Multi-Attribute Utility (MAU) model to examine the Pap test decision-making process among Pacific Islanders (PI) residing in Southern California. A total of 585 PI women were recruited through social networks from Samoan and Tongan churches, and Chamorro family clans. A questionnaire assessed Pap test knowledge, beliefs and past behaviour. The three MAU parameters of subjective value, subjective probability and momentary salience were measured for eight anticipated consequences of having a Pap test (e.g., feeling embarrassed, spending money). Logistic regression indicated that women who had a Pap test (Pap women) had higher total MAU utility scores compared to women who had not had a Pap test within the past three years (No Pap women) (adjusted Odds Ratio = 1.10). In particular, Pap women had higher utilities for the positive consequences ‘<span style="font-style:italic;">Detecting cervical cancer early</span>, <span style="font-style:italic;">Peace of mind</span>, and <span style="font-style:italic;">Protecting my family</span>’, compared to No Pap women. It is concluded that the connection between utility and behaviour offers a promising pathway toward a better understanding of the decision to undergo Pap testing.</span>
Source: Health Education Research - Category: Research Source Type: research