Sociodemographic Factors, Essay Example

Introduction

The study by Elit et.al addresses the significance of cervical cancer screening and the importance of sociodemographic factors as part of a larger framework for obtaining these screenings in a timely manner. The study examined the different aspects of cancer screening for a population of women in Ontario between the ages of 18 and 70 years and include outcome measures such as neighborhood, income level, age, and health region (Elit et.al, e22). The study sought to determine if income level and sociodemographic data play a role in these screenings and whether or not abnormal results are properly addressed (Elit et.al, e22). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention supports cervical cancer screenings for women over the age of 21, including a pap test and an HPV test after age 30 (CDC, 2014).

Analysis

Based upon the study, it was determined that women of lower incomes do not obtain cervical cancer screenings in a timely manner or do not receive them at all, thereby increasing their risk of the disease if they are not evaluated (Elit et.al, e22). In this context, the article strengthens the need to address sociodemographic factors that impact patients and that aim to provide patients with opportunities to improve their health through screenings for women across all population groups, regardless of income. The article is strong in that it uses a practical approach to address a serious problem that continues to be an issue with respect to disparities in healthcare practice; therefore, this issue must be addressed in a timely manner in order to preserve the health and wellbeing of women across all age groups and income levels.

Conclusion

This article also provides a basis for examining the different areas where disparities exist so that there are significant opportunities to advance the practice environment and to preserve patient health as best as possible, given the conditions that currently persist. This process requires a concerted effort from many health experts in order to ensure that patients receive the proper screenings that are necessary to detect any problems as early as possible and to prevent further complications.

Works Cited

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2014). What should I know about screening? Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/cervical/basic_info/screening.htm

Elit, L., M. Krzyzanowska, R. Saskin, L. Barbera, A. Razzaq, A. Lofters, N. Yeritsan, & A. Berman. “Sociodemographic factors associated with cervical cancer screening and follow-up of abnormal results.” Canadian Family Physician, 58.1(2012): e22-31.