Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Tunisian women in terms of screening for breast cancer and that of the cervix

Abstract

AimsTo describe and analyze knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Tunisian women toward breast and cervical cancer screening.Materials and methodsThis is a descriptive cross-sectional study of a sample of 900 women who consulted for any reason at the Basic Health Center in Health region of Monastir. The survey was conducted over a period of four months through a questionnaire designed for the study objectives.ResultsOur study shows that the level of knowledge of women about breast cancer and that of cervix is still insufficient especially for cervical cancer. The use of screening for breast cancer was relatively low (36.2%) and even lower for screening of cervical cancer (22.1%). The practice of screening was strongly correlated for both cancers studied with the knowledge level and the participation in the sessions of health education as well as the study’s level for breast cancer. Following participation in these sessions, 98.5% of women became more motivated to get tested. Now, they preferred that testing is performed by a midwife instead of a doctor and caregiver of the feminine gender.ConclusionIt is basically a favorable attitude toward screening for breast cancer and that of cervix contrasting with the insufficient level of knowledge and practice of screening. These results emphasize the need for better information and motivation of women.