Pastors' Wives Project

Summary of Data re Cervical Cancer in North Minneapolis

According to Cancer in Minnesota, 1988 to 2002, cervical cancer incidence is highest among women of color, both in Minnesota and nationally.  Women of color in Minnesota are more than two times more likely to be diagnosed with invasive cervical cancer than non-Hispanic white women, and disparities in the mortality rate may be even greater. 

The population in North Minneapolis is predominately African American with a smattering of recent Asian and Hispanic /Latino immigrants, and a few non-Hispanic whites.  In looking at data about cervical cancer from North Minneapolis zip code areas the numbers, though very small, reflect the data from Cancer in Minnesota.   Mortality is even more striking with deaths six times higher than expected in one zip code area: 55411.  The current project is designed to educate women in North Minneapolis about the importance of early screening for cervical cancer.  The long term goal is to increase regular cervical screening in this community and ultimately to decrease mortality from this very curable cancer. 

There is a growing body of literature which supports using the churches in the African American community as partners to deliver important health messages.  The church in the African American community has been a pillar of strength and empowerment, acting as the center for education, activism, a gathering place and a source of trusted information.  Pastors and pastors' wives are respected gatekeepers for the community and are particularly well suited for organizing and stimulating change.  For this project pastors' wives will be recruited to partner, champion and promote the project in their congregation.