Abstract

Objectives: To examine the use of mammography and Pap smear among women with diabetes and to identify predictors of adherence to these tests.

Research design and methods: We analyzed data of a nationally representative sample of Spanish women. Diabetes status was self reported. Screenings were assessed asking whether they had a mammography (≥40 years) and a Pap smear (18-69 years) within the previous 2 and 3 years respectively.

Results: Women with diabetes were less likely to receive mammography (57.9%) or have a pap smear (61.5%) compared to women without diabetes (mammography 61.9% p <0.05; Pap smear 65.6% p <0.05). After adjusting for: age, educational level, income, comorbidity, tobacco use, obesity and physicians visits the corresponding ORs remained significant (0.84 CI95% 0.72-0.97) and (0.82 CI95% 0.66-0.98). Higher educational level was a positive predictor for both tests among diabetic women.

Conclusion: Spanish women with diabetes underuse breast and cervical cancer screening tests.