Educating women about early detection of gynecologic cancers using a brochure.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES: To develop and evaluate a brochure for educating women about screening for gynecologic cancers.

DATA SOURCES

Journal articles and American Cancer Society (ACS) materials.

DATA SYNTHESIS

This brochure focuses on early detection (based on ACS guidelines), signs and symptoms, and risk factors for cancers of the cervix, uterus, and ovaries as well as a detailed discussion of the Papanicolaou (Pap) test and the Bethesda System for grading test results.

CONCLUSIONS

This brochure has been effective in educating a large number of women about early detection of gynecologic cancers.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Nurses can use this brochure as an effective adjunct to their public education programs that address early detection of gynecologic cancers.