Identification of Women’s Attitudes towards Early Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer

Abstract

Purpose: Identification of women’s attitudes towards early diagnosis of cervical cancer is important in terms of overcoming the barriers to the solution to a global health problem. In this regard, the purpose of this study is to identify women’s attitudes towards early diagnosis of cervical cancer. Methods: This descriptive and cross-sectional study utilized a stratified, proportional sampling method. The participants were 1248 women aged between 20 and 64 who applied to the Maternity and Children Hospital polyclinics due to any reason. Data were collected through the socio-demographic form which was originally developed by the researchers in line with the literature and the Attitude Scale toward Early Detection of Cervical Cancer. Results: Of all the participants, 66.6% were found to have a regular gynecological examination. Almost half of the women who did not undergo regular examination reported to have done so because they felt embarrassed. Attitudes of women towards early diagnosis of cervical cancer were found to be at moderate level. Age, education level, financial situation, and being married were identified as the factors that affected attitudes towards early diagnosis (p<0.05). Perceived susceptibility, seriousness, and benefits of women who had regular gynecological examination were found to be significantly higher than those who did not. Conclusions: In line with the findings, although there is a reliable and accessible test that enables early diagnosis of cervical cancer, medium level of attitudes among women is an important barrier in preventing and decreasing deaths caused by cervical cancer.