HPV Study
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among American Indian women. Most cervical cancers are caused by the human papillomavirus, also called "HPV." The Pap test, given by a doctor or nurse to screen for cervical cancer, checks for abnormal cells caused by HPV. When such abnormal cells are found early, they can be removed before cancer develops. This is why it is important for women to get routine Pap tests and to follow up on abnormal results. Unfortunately, many women do not get regular Pap tests. They may feel embarrassed by the Pap test, or they may lack time or transportation to a doctor's office.
In this study, Missouri Breaks Research partnered with the University of Washington to offer American Indian women an HPV test kit that that they used in the privacy of their own home. The in-home HPV test did not replace the need for regular Pap tests, but was able to show women if they were at risk for cervical cancer. The goal of this study was to help us find out how Lakota women feel about using this test kit and understand why some women are more likely than others to have HPV. This information helps us learn about new ways to prevent HPV and cervical cancer in American Indian women.
Study Documents: All items containing study results have undergone reivew and approval from the participating Tribe(s) and Great Plains IRB.
Presentation for Oglala Sioux Tribe
Presentation from University of New Mexico
Publication on HPV Knowledge and Attitudes
Publication on Guardasil Vaccine
Lay Summary on Guardasil Vaccine
