The understanding and perception of service providers about the community-based cervical screening in Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Community-based cervical screening based on the single visit approach using the visual inspection approach (VIA) and treatment with cryotherapy is the most appropriate method in limited resource settings in the short- to medium-term for the control of cervical cancer. Aim: The study is aimed at assessing the service providers understanding and perception of community-based cervical screening. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study of 31 health workers providing cervical screening services in Ogun State, Nigeria, using closed and open ended questions. Results: There was a huge turnover of health workers who had been involved in cervical screening. Over 90% of the health workers opined that screening should commenced before the age of 25 years. Their opinion of the recommended screening interval for cervical cancer varied; with 54.8%, 16.1%, and 29.0% giving 3, 2 years, and 1 year, respectively. The VIA is the most recommended screening test by the health workers (74.2%). The majority of health workers (87.1%) felt that the logistic and technical support provided for the cervical screening program was not adequate. Cervical cancer screening is thought to be of low priority within the health system by 45.2% of the respondents while 32.3% think that it is of moderate priority. The majority of the health workers (90.3%) said that the health authority in their local government do not budget funds for cervical cancer prevention. Conclusion: The service providers perceive the need for an urgent improvement in the community-based cervical screening through awareness creation, reduction in health worker turnover, and support and integration of cervical screening services.