Uptake of cervical cancer screening in Kuwait: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Abstract Background Despite the low incidence of cervical cancer in Kuwait in 2018, it is projected that it will increase by 48% by 2035. This is of concern considering that cervical cancer is a preventable disease if detected early. With limited research in this area in Kuwait, we sought to assess the prevalence of cervical cancer screening (CCS) among Kuwaiti women. Methods This study is part of the WHO's 2014 STEPS risk factor surveillance study. A representative random sample (n = 3915) of Kuwaiti citizens was recruited (response rate= 89.2%). CCS was assessed with the question “Have you ever had a screening test for cervical cancer using any of the methods described above”. All women aged 21-69 years who responded to the CCS question (n = 2183) were included in the analysis. Independent variables included age, area of residence, marital status, level of education, work status, smoking status, BMI level, history of CV disease, and history of diabetes. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and multivariable logistic regression adjusted for participants' characteristics. Results The overall weighted CCS prevalence was 15.7% (95% CI [14.3-17.4]). CCS was associated with age (OR = 5.0 [2.5-10]) for age group 60-69, and OR = 3.1 [1.9-5.1] for age group 45-59 compared to the age group 21-29, area of residence (ORs ranged from 0.3 to 0.5 for those living in different governorates compared to those who lived in the Capital), marital status (OR = 4.4 for married and OR = 5.2 for divorced/widowed compared to those who were single), and level of education (ORs ranged from 2.7 to 2.9 for those who completed at least high-school education compared to those who did not). Conclusions The current uptake of CCS among Kuwaiti women is low. Disparities exist in terms of age, area of residence, level of education, and marital status. More efforts are needed to promote CCS through an organized screening program while considering the existing disparities. Key messages The current use of cervical cancer screening among Kuwaiti women is low. More efforts are needed to promote cervical cancer screening while paying attention to existing socioeconomic disparities.