Screening Gaps: Why African Immigrant Women Face Higher Cervical Cancer Risks

"Studies show that women who moved from Africa to the United States often skip routine cervical cancer checks. The gap is bigger than for many other groups, and it varies with where they came from, how well they speak English, and how long they've lived in the U. S. The lack of screening means cancers can grow unchecked, leading to more serious health problems later. Language barriers and unfamiliarity with the U. S. healthcare system are major hurdles. Some women also distrust medical institutions because of past experiences in their home countries or cultural beliefs about illness.Another factor is the length of time a woman has been in America. Those who have lived longer are more likely to seek care, but even then they lag behind other immigrant populations. These patterns suggest that one-size-fits-all public health messages miss key audiences. Tailored outreach—using community leaders, translated materials, and culturally sensitive education—could close the gap. If health services adapt to these specific needs, African immigrant women could receive earlier detection and better outcomes. The problem isn’t just medical; it’s about access, trust, and cultural understanding. "