Socio-demographic characteristics associated with prevention practices of cervical cancer among women of reproductive age in internally displaced persons’ camps in Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

Abstract

Cervical cancer is a public health menace affecting Nigerian women especially in the north-east. Insurgency in the northeast has displaced millions of women and girls to environments that increase their risks to cervical cancer. The persistent high mortality rates due to cervical cancer in Nigeria despite being a preventable disease are reasons to explore cervical cancer research among the vulnerable groups of women in IDP camps. Hence, this study aimed to assess socio-demographic characteristics associated with prevention practices of cervical cancer among women of reproductive age in IDP camps in Abuja. This was a cross-sectional descriptive study. The population was women of reproductive age (15-49) years in IDP camps in FCT, who consented through a validated interviewer administered questionnaire. The results showed the mean age of participants was 27.66 years and majority (43.1%) had at least secondary school education with 21.6% reporting non-formal education. The assessed preventive practices of cervical cancer showed a mean (SD) of 5.123 (3.323) which translates to 34.2% prevention level. Findings also reported a statistically significant relationship between age and cervical screening practices [OR=1.19; p = 0.37; 95% CI: (101-1.41)]. In addition, a statistically significant relationship was reported between marital status and cervical cancer screening [p = 0.36; OR = 2.01; 95% CI (1.04 – 3.877)] and getting information from clinic [ p = 0.01; OR = 2.55; 95% CI (1.17-5.59)]. Findings from this study revealed poor cervical cancer screening practices and recommends free periodic cervical cancer screening services for women and girls in IDP camps. Keywords: Attitudinal Disposition, Cervical Cancer, Prevention Practice, Socio-demographic characteristics, Reproductive age women.