Individual and Community-Related Barriers Influencing the Utilization of Cervical Cancer Treatment in Selected Hospitals in Abeokuta South, Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

Cancer is one of the most dreadful diseases, especially in poor countries of the world. This study sought to identify perceived barriers influencing the utilization of cervical cancer treatment in some selected hospitals in Abeokuta South, Ogun State Nigeria. This research study adopted a survey research design to explain the barriers affecting the utilization of cervical cancer treatment among women in some selected hospitals in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. Purposive sampling technique was used to gather data from 79 participants comprising 40 patients and 39 carers from 3 health facilities in Abeokuta South Local Government Area of Ogun State. The instrument used for this study was a structured validated questionnaire. The research instrument was divided into three (3) sections, each comprising the perceived individual and community barriers. Data gathered were analysed using descriptive statistics including frequency, percentages, mean and standard deviation. There was composite influence of individual, community, institutional and policy perceived barriers on utilization of cervical cancer treatment (F4,74=9.973; p<0.01). 31.5% of variance in cervical cancer treatment utilization was significantly jointly attributable to individual, community, institutional and policy perceived barriers (r2=.315; F4, 74=9.973; p<0.01). From the results gathered, the study vividly agreed to the individual and community barriers influencing cervical cancer treatment utilization. Individual and community barriers limiting access to cervical cancer treatment measures are the major factors to be considered if people should shift from vague and risky traditional disease treatment approach to orthodoxy with well-known scientific proof and minimal risk. Ministries of Health, Donor Agencies and all stakeholders should as a matter of urgency invest more in educating the public as well as carers on the workings, effectiveness and new development on the treatment of cervical cancer. Keyword: Barriers, Cervical Cancer, Community, Individual, Treatment Utilization.