Vision: To increase cervical cancer screening among women 18 and older in the 55411 and 55412 zip codes

Rationale: In 1998-2002 the invasive cervical cancer rate in Minnesota was 70-120% higher among communities of color as compared to white women.  Elevated cervical cancer rates among women of color is seen nationally as well.  Aggregated Minnesota data from 1992-2002 show 88% of African American women report a pap test in the last three years.  However, when we look at cervical cancer data from zip codes 55411 and 55412 - although small numbers - the observed rate of cervical cancer incidence and mortality is approximately twice the estimated rate. In addition, 19% of residents of the Near North/Camden have no insurance, and 58.80% in Near North & 38.70% in Camden, are living below 200% FPL. Women of color in North Minneapolis are experiencing disparities around cervical cancer screening, and may not have the resources to seek screening. Community members have identified that cervical cancer and screening is a concern.

In reviewing information from focus groups conducted in the African American community of North & South Minneapolis, women identified: information from trusted community members, use social institutions such as churches, understand cultural beliefs, develop network & relationships identify key community leaders, and make program sustainable. 

Understanding that church communities are increasingly recognized as promising venues to reach African Americans regarding health matters (Clay, Newlin, & Leeks, 2005), and may meet many of the criteria identified by the focus groups, the loci of intervention will be eleven churches in North Minneapolis.  The 11 churches selected for the intervention have an approximately 95% African American demographic (other demographics to be collected).

Objectives: To be developed

Methods:

In the calendar year 2006, each of the eleven churches will have the opportunity to partner with members of the Pap Project Team to offer women in each congregation access to an educational session on cervical cancer screening built on the Friend to Friend (F2F) model.  Friend to Friend is….   Working through the Pastor's Wives Group - a long term standing group, congregation contacts/champions will be identified for partnering in intervention implementation. A F2F implementation team exists, but congregation champions are welcome to be trained and join the implementation team.  The Pastor's Wives Group will be the first recipient of the intervention.

In addition to the interventions, we hope to partner with clinics in North Minneapolis to serve as "host" sites for community forums, focus groups, presentations, and provide the clinical services. A process will be developed for linking women to resources.

Promotion and marketing of the events and of the topic of cervical cancer will be developed, and be appropriate to the audience.

Opportunity to assess the interest of other church based venues will be accomplished.

Evaluation:

To be developed