Factors influencing utilization of cervical cancer screening services among women – A cross sectional survey

Abstract

IntroductionGlobally cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women. Prevention and control of cervical cancer is a major public health concern. Pap smear screening is a proven and cost-effective preventive strategy for early detection of cervical cancer. Current study aimed to assess various factors affecting utilization of cervical cancer screening services. Materials and methodsThis cross-sectional study involved random selection of 430 women in the age group of 30–60 years of age residing in selected tribal settlements of Marayoor Panchayat of Idukki district of Kerala, India. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data on demographic variables, and factors affecting utilization of cervical cancer screening services. ResultsUtilization of cervical cancer screening services was very low in the studied population and only 5% of the studied population has undergone Pap smear screening during their life time. In the current study lower level of knowledge regarding cervical cancer screening was significantly associated with nonparticipation in screening services. Lack of awareness (25.06%), lack of adequate health care facilities (22.67%), lack of symptoms (11.69%), not feeling at risk (11.93%) and social stigma (9.55%) were identified as important factors affecting utilization of cervical cancer screening services. ConclusionDespite being preventable low awareness level on cervical cancer and underutilization of screening services was found in the studied population and various sociodemographic and cultural factors are affecting utilization of screening services. There is a need to strengthen existing screening programmes and to implement effective campaigns to improve access to screening services.