Awareness Of Risk Factors And Screening Methods Of Cancer Cervix Among Women Attending Gynaecology Department At A Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

Examining the knowledge and attitudes of women who attend the gynaecology ward at SVIMS, Tirupati about cervical cancer screening strategies and risk factors was the goal of this study. The 250 female participants in this prospective study all lived in a hospital environment.   We believed that by distributing a booklet with relevant information, we might teach patients the value of early detection and the steps they may take to improve their health and reduce the progression of cervical cancer. A predetermined questionnaire was used to gather data from interviewees. Statistical significance was determined while using multivariate logistic regression to determine independent variables, with a p-value less than 0.05.  While 46.7% were in the dark about cervical cancer, 53.3% had some knowledge about the disease.  A mean awareness score of 125 ± 9 was recorded.  A total of 55.3% of the participants had no idea what symptoms to look out for (mean score: 28.75 ± 25.56), while only 34.4% were aware of the risk factors (19.25 ± 3.89).  A mean score of 34 ± 38.56 indicated that 68% of the participants were aware of screening options, which includes the Pap smear test. The majority of participants knew that a Pap test might detect cervical cancer, but there were major knowledge gaps when it came to symptoms and risk factors, according to the study's conclusion. Age, marital status, and years of experience were not shown to be important factors in awareness.  The results highlight the need for more education on cervical cancer, its symptoms, and risk factors, as well as more frequent screenings to lower death rates. This study serves as a baseline for further awareness programs in health professions.