Urban Indian Health Services American Indian and Alaskan Native Cervical Cancer Report

In 2005, the Urban Indian Health Services group, a division of Indian Health Services, which is the agency responsible for instituting out the Indian Health Care Improvement Act, released a Breast and Cervical Cancer Report regarding urban American Indians and Alaskan Natives. The report describes "an unmet level of need in breast and cervical cancer services among the AI/AN who reside in urban areas," adding that, "both UIHOs and states reported many factors influencing screening behaviors."

Influential factors included:

• Lack of awareness
• Lack of coordination related to screening activities
• Lack of referral to non-AI/AN clinics
• Poor staffing and long wait times at clinics
• Lack of insurance or childcare options

These factors serve as a catalyst for other deterrents such as cultural barriers and beliefs. However, the Urban Indian Health Services group identified coalitions and partnerships as a crucial step for developing successful cervical cancer collaborations within the AI/AN community. Particularly "liaisons with knowledge and sensitivity towards AI/AN cultural issues, a proven track record in technical assistance, and an established relationship with the UIHO, is essential for successfully reaching the urban AI/AN population."

Read the full report at: http://www.uihi.org/reports/BreastAndCervicalCancerReport.pdf