To evaluate the role of training session on ‘Cervical Cancer Screening’ in improving knowledge and attitude of Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) in East Delhi population

Abstract

Background: India has the world’s largest load of cervical malignancy. A lot of it can be attributed to lack of cervical cancer screening awareness among the general population. The Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) are grass root workers who have good reach in the remote areas, where health care facilities are lacking. Training these ASHAs may increasethe general awareness about cervical cancer screening. Methods: We organized a training programme of 250 ASHA workers in a tertiary care hospital with aim of improving their knowledge and attitude about cervical cancer screening which will eventually improve their practise of training women in general population. It comprised of 5 lectures in language they understand, slogans, posters, question answer session etc. A test comprising of 17 questions was conducted before and after session to check their knowledge and attitude. Results: There was an overall improvement of 25% in knowledge of the ASHAs i.e. 38% answers were correct in pre-test and 63% were correct in post-test. Questions were pertaining to symptomatology, risk factors, screening methods, their utility and prerequisites of performing the screening tests, when and how often to repeat. Improvement was seen in all the areas. There was improvement in attitude too and most of them wanted themselves (98%), their relatives (100%) and the woman within their area (98%) to be screened for cancer cervix. Conclusion: It was a small initiative and successful result was obtained after the training session of ASHAs. The impact on general population needs further evaluation.