Knowledge, attitudes and behaviors of sex workers about cervical cancer in a brothel from Adana

Abstract

Purpose: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women and the seventh overall, with an estimated 528,000 new cases worldwide in 2012.The highest prevalence of HPV has been described in female sex workers (FSWs). The aim of this study is determine the level of knowledge, attitudes and behaviors of FSWs about cervical cancer. Material and Method: This is a descriptive study carried out on FSWs in a brothel located in the province of Adana, Turkey. A questionnaire consisting of 21 questions regarding the awareness of FSWs about cervical cancer was used as the data collection tool. The questionnaires were applied to 103 FSWs during their routine examinations in Adana Skin and Venereal Diseases Dispensary by the researchers with face to face interviews. Results: Mean age of the participants was 43.8+/-8.6. 57.3% of FSWs knew smear is the screening method for cervical cancer, 89.3% had previously undergone smear test, 41.8% specified it should be done after the age of 18, 35.9% remarked it should be performed annually. In FSWs those who know more than one sexual partner increases the risk of cervical cancer, performing smear test was significantly higher in the 18-49 age group than the 49 or older group. Conclusion: Active screenings and national cervical cancer prevention programs should primarily be administered to these women. Raising the level of knowledge, effective vaccine utilization in the young age group of FSWs can reduce the incidence of HPV infection and cervical cancer. [Cukurova Med J 2017; 42(1.000): 41-47]

Keywords

• Sex worker
• HPV
• Cervical cancer