The Hidden Burden: Unveiling the Cervical Cancer Burden Among Recent Afghan Women Immigrants in the United States

J Immigr Minor Health. 2024 Nov 29. doi: 10.1007/s10903-024-01655-w. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

Cervical cancer is a significant global health issue, ranking as the second most prevalent cancer among women of reproductive age. While prevention strategies like HPV vaccination and screening have made it highly preventable, these benefits are mostly seen in high-HDI nations. In contrast, LMICs lag behind, with Afghanistan facing a growing crisis due to war, poverty, and lack of awareness. The recent influx of Afghan evacuees to the U.S. poses a risk of introducing undiagnosed cases. Addressing this requires collaborative efforts to raise awareness, promote screening, and vaccination among Afghan women, leveraging culturally sensitive approaches and community partnerships to improve health outcomes.

Keywords: Afghan women; Cervical cancer; Immigration; Low literacy.