Knowledge and acceptability of cervical cancer screening among female part-time students

Project Abstract

Cervical cancer is a significant public health concern worldwide, with preventive screening playing a crucial role in early detection and treatment. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and acceptability of cervical cancer screening among female part-time students. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among a sample of part-time female students aged 18-35 years at a university in an urban setting. The survey included questions related to demographics, knowledge about cervical cancer, screening methods, and acceptability of screening. The results indicated a moderate level of knowledge among the respondents regarding cervical cancer and its screening. While most participants were aware of the existence of cervical cancer screening, there were misconceptions and gaps in understanding the importance and frequency of screening. Additionally, there was a lack of awareness about the role of human papillomavirus (HPV) in the development of cervical cancer and its connection to screening. Regarding acceptability, the study found that the majority of female part-time students expressed a positive attitude towards cervical cancer screening. Factors influencing acceptability included perceived susceptibility to cervical cancer, perceived benefits of screening, and recommendations from healthcare providers. However, barriers such as fear of pain, embarrassment, and lack of time were noted as reasons for hesitancy towards screening. The study highlighted the need for targeted educational interventions to improve knowledge and awareness of cervical cancer among female part-time students. Strategies focusing on the importance of regular screening, the role of HPV in cervical cancer, and dispelling myths and misconceptions could help increase uptake of screening services. Furthermore, addressing barriers such as fear and time constraints through the provision of convenient screening options and supportive environments may enhance acceptability among this population. In conclusion, this study sheds light on the knowledge gaps and acceptability of cervical cancer screening among female part-time students. By identifying areas for improvement in knowledge dissemination and addressing barriers to screening, public health efforts can be better tailored to encourage regular screening practices among this demographic. Future research should focus on evaluating the effectiveness of educational interventions and targeted outreach programs in promoting cervical cancer screening uptake among female part-time students.

Project Overview

<p> Cancer of the cervix remains the most common malignant neoplasm of the female genitalia and the second most common cancer in women.. Cervical Cancers screening serves to detect the possibility that a cancer is present. The main objective of the study was to determine the knowledge and acceptability of Cervicals Cancer Screening among Female Part- Time Students in University of Benin. The hypothesis for the study was: there is no relationship between knowledge of cervical cancer and acceptability of cervical cancer screening. Survey research design was used in the study. Simple random sampling was used to select the sample. The sample consisted of 200 Female Part- Time Students in University of Benin. Data was collected using questionnaire. The study findings revealed that slightly above half more than half of (74%) of the respondents were between the age of 20-25 years, 58 (77%) respondents could not remember age of their first sexual intercourse, the majority 168(86%) of respondents have heard of cervical cancer, majority 126 (63%) of respondents heard about cervical cancer from media, hundred and two (51%) participants explained cervical cancer as abnormal lesion on the cervix, sixty four (32%) respondents stated that unprotected sexual intercourse is a risk factor of cervicals cancer, sixty (30%) of respondents stated that abnormal vaginal bleeding is a sign of cervical cancer, 120 (60%) respondents stated that cervical cancer can be detected by cervicals cancer screening, majority 194 (97%) of respondents stated that cervical cancers screening is done in hospital, majority 178 (89%) of respondents had never been screened for cervical cancers, majority 94 (47%) of respondents strongly agreed that cervical cancer screening is important, the majority 144(72%) of the respondents had no intention of going for cervicals cancer screening, majority 80 (40%) of respondents stated that lack of awareness to cervical cancers screening is a major barrier to cervical cancer screening. The study recommends among others that nurses should engage more on giving Information Education and Communication (IEC) at all levels of Health Care Delivery toward cervical cancers screening. Cervical cancers screening center should be made available in university of Benin health center at subsidized amount so that female students can easily access the service. <br></p>