Abstract A52: An evaluation of the "Con Amor Aprendemos" cervical cancer education intervention for Latino couples in El Salvador

This study highlights results of the adaptation and implementation of the "Con Amor Aprendemos" (CAA) education intervention in El Salvador, illustrating how the CAA program effectively increased participants' knowledge and modified behavior.Cervical cancer has the highest incidence and mortality rates of all cancers affecting Salvadoran women. The associated morbidity and mortality is disconcerting since the majority of cervical cancer cases could be prevented through an organized screening program and use of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. Educational interventions targeting community leaders, women, and their male partners play a key role in improving acceptability of these medical interventions and allow for a higher uptake of services.Methods: CAA is a seven-week faith-based education intervention designed to reduce HPV-related disease in Latino populations. Instructors are trained in two-day workshops and deliver CAA through faith-based organizations. Culturally engaging, learner-center activities address issues such as cervical cancer prevention, screening, diagnosis and treatment to promote self-efficacy in health-related decision-making.Cultural differences with Latino populations outside the US required adaptation of the intervention. A committee of health care providers, community health and faith-based leaders in El Salvador reviewed the CAA program and offered recommendations for modification.187 individuals were trained as CAA instructors and 1,296 commu...
Source: Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers and Prevention - Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Tags: Health Education: Poster Presentations - Proffered Abstracts Source Type: research