Prevalence and correlates of cervical and breast cancer screening among women in Mexico

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and correlates of cervical and breast cancer screening among women in Mexico. The study is based on a national population-based cross-sectional survey of adults (SAGE wave 2- 2014-15) in Mexico. Pelvic examination and Pap smear in the past 3 years among women 21 to 65 years and mammography in the past 5 years among women 40 to 65 years was assessed by self-report. The sample for cervical cancer screening included 1,585 women 21-65 years old and the sample for breast cancer screening included 1,314 women 40-65 years old. Results indicate that the prevalence of cervical cancer screening was 73.2% and the prevalence of breast cancer screening was 61.7%. Further, the prevalence of cervical cancer screening was the lowest among 21-29 year-old women (45.5%) and the highest among 40-49 year-old women
(75.8%). While, the prevalence of breast cancer screening was the lowest among 40-49 year-old women (59.8%) and the highest among 60-65 year-old women (65.8%). In adjusted logistic regression analysis, older age, being married or cohabiting, low food insecurity, functional disability, high physical activity and adequate FV consumption were associated with cervical cancer screening. Secondary or higher education was associated with
breast cancer screening. In addition, in unadjusted analysis, having diabetes, functional disability and past tobacco use were associated with breast cancer screening. A high prevalence of cervical and breast cancer screening was discovered among women in Mexico. Several protective factors were identified, which can be targeted in public health interventions.

Keywords: screening, breast cancer, cervical cancer, health factors, women, Mexico