Health Care for Women International

Cervical cancer screening behavior of African women: The Rosenstock health belief model assessment

Our paper is a narrative synthesis of the health belief model (HBM), which was developed in the early 1950s by social psychologists Hochbaum, Rosenstock, and Kegels working in the US Public Health Services. The HBM has been adapted to explore various long- and short-term health behaviors. In this narrative synthesis, we provide the analysis of the utilization of HBM and cervical cancer screening in Africa from 2009 to 2017 and critically evaluate the HBM in the context of different African countries. We also elucidate cervical cancer screening behavior among women living in Africa through a compassionate approach. Our results provide insights into individuals' health-seeking behavior and their place of residence, which provide valuable evidence for the development of further preventative medicine.

Feelings, thoughts and experiences of women diagnosed with adnexal mass: A qualitative study

Adnexal masses have a risk of malignancy, especially in postmenopausal women, thus affecting the physical, psychological, and social lives of women with such masses. In addition, patients require a long duration of hospitalization during treatment. In earlier studies, researchers have focused on the experiences of newly diagnosed women or the side effects of treatment. However, women's experiences during the hospitalization period have been ignored. In this study we explored the feelings, thoughts, experiences, and nursing care needs of women hospitalized with adnexal mass diagnosis. In this qualitative study, interviews were conducted with 11 women hospitalized for an adnexal mass or ovarian cancer diagnosis. The feelings, thoughts, and experiences of the women were negatively affected. They were more likely to rely on internal motivation and had lesser expectations of professional support. Thus, nurses should provide women with this diagnosis social support and facilitate their adaptation to the hospital. The diagnosis and treatment of adnexal masses is a complex process that requires teamwork. Therefore, navigator nurses can be of great help to women during their illness.

An integrative literature review of barriers and facilitators to cervical cancer screening among refugee women in the United States

Refugee women experience disproportionally high cervical cancer-related mortality. In this integrative review, we identify and discuss factors related to cervical cancer screening among refugee women in the US according to the Social Ecological Model. Two qualitative and three quantitative studies met inclusion criteria. Individual-level factors include English-language ability, availability, and individual knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs. Interpersonal-level factors include interactions with family/friends, provider, and community health worker. Community-, organization-, and policy-level factors include sociocultural values, transportation, ability to navigate the healthcare system, and health insurance. We discuss findings in the context of related reviews and applicability to other global settings.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) and influenza vaccine behavior among Muslim women in the United States

In this study, we examined vaccination behaviors-single dose human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, triple dose HPV vaccination, and influenza vaccination-among Muslim women residing in the United States. Using logistic regression models, we analyzed self-reported survey. We found that respondents had lower rates of HPV vaccination and higher rates of influenza vaccination, relative to the general American population. The respondents in our sample who reported contraceptive use had higher odds of vaccination. In this study the authors provide a springboard for the enhancement of patient-centered care through better understanding of health behaviors and cultural preferences of underrepresented communities in research.

Does group education affect mothers’ knowledge and attitudes towards the HPV vaccine?

In this study the authors' investigated the effect of group education on human papillomavirus (HPV) on level of knowledge and health beliefs for HPV infection and vaccine. The study was semi-experimental with a pre- and post-test education model. In total, 110 mothers of secondary school students, 55 in education group, and 55 in control group participated. The groups were educated on different content and three evaluations (pre-education, post-education, and six months following the education) were made. HPV knowledge and belief scores of the education group increased compared to pre-education and control group scores (

Linking digital health divide to HPV awareness, HPV knowledge, and cervical cancer screening among women in the United States: A trend analysis from 2008 to 2017

The author aims to explore the trend of HPV awareness, HPV knowledge, and cervical cancer screening among American female adults, and the influence of digital health divide throughout the past decade. Data from the 2008, 2013, and 2017 iterations of the nationally representative survey of Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS) were employed for this research. The author found that cervical cancer screening continuously increased in the past decade. Women's HPV awareness and knowledge remain low. Internet access, Internet health information seeking, and eHealth activities were significant determinants of HPV awareness and knowledge over the three iterations.

New instrument for measuring quality of life in patients with cervical cancer

Our study aimed to develop and validate a reliable instrument that can measure the quality of life (QOL) of patients with cervical cancer living in a developing country, such as the Central Balkan country, Serbia. Our study was cross-sectional for assessing the reliability and validity of a questionnaire. Balkan questionnaire for QOL of patients with cervical cancer showed satisfactory reliability and temporal stability. When the investigators rated the questionnaire, Cronbach's alpha was 0.971 at the beginning, and one month later it was 0.967. When the questionnaire was rated by patients themselves, Cronbach's alpha was 0.972. The questionnaire should be considered as an addition to the existing armamentarium for measuring the quality of life in patients with cervical cancer.

Unveiling the role of traditional regimens in the management of uterine fibroids: A systematic review

Uterine fibroids (UF) affect 75% of women, causing pelvic discomfort, heavy bleeding, and fertility issues. Standard treatments pose risks like liver impairment and reduced bone density. Traditional medicines (TM) offer alternative approaches. We found that data from PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and bibliometric analysis using Dimension AI support TM's efficacy. In this review, we examined 21 case studies across Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Yoga, Cupping Therapy, and Acupuncture, revealing promising outcomes in reducing fibroid size and relieving symptoms, all without significant side effects. TM interventions have tremendous potential, yet conclusive evidence is lacking. This underscores the potential of TM in managing UF and the need for further research and clinical trials for validation. Integrating TM into healthcare may enhance patient outcomes and reduce costs.