Assessment of knowledge and attitude towards cancer cervix among adult women

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Original Article

Author Details : Bhavana R. Hiremath, Chandan N.

Volume : 4, Issue : 1, Year : 2017

Article Page : 24-29

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Abstract

Background: Cancer cervix is the most malignant neoplasms striking women at a young age. It is relatively asymptomatic in early stages and in advanced stages the symptoms are vague and can be neglected by women. It is essential to understand the perceptions of women towards cancer cervix and impart knowledge regarding the same.
Materials and Method: A cross-sectional study was carried out among the women attendees of urban and rural health training centers. Women who consented were interviewed in details to understand their knowledge and attitude regarding reproductive tract infections, cancer cervix screening and prevention. Interview of women was conducted and details regarding socio-demographic characters were collected alongwith knowledge and attitude regarding reproductive tract infections and cancer cervix. Health education was imparted to all women regarding importance of screening (PAP smear) and prevention of cancer cervix.
Results: Majority women in both areas had inadequate knowledge regarding cancer cervix and reproductive tract infections. White discharge per vagina was the most common reproductive tract infection reported, 38% in urban and 36% in rural area. Majority women in both areas had not heard about cancer cervix. 20% women in urban area were aware of the availability of treatment for cancer cervix compared to only 2% in rural area. Drugs and surgery were the main treatment options according to them. Only 14% women in urban and 2% women in rural area were aware that cancer cervix was preventable.
Conclusion: Knowledge regarding cancer cervix was inadequate among our study subjects. Providing health education and reinforcing importance of self-care proved beneficial as their attitude towards screening was positive.

Keywords: Cancer cervix, Pap smear test, Knowledge, Attitude

How to cite : Hiremath B R, Chandan N., Assessment of knowledge and attitude towards cancer cervix among adult women. J Community Health Manag 2017;4(1):24-29

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