USERS’ PERCEPTION OF SCREENING TESTS FOR PREVENTING CERVICAL CANCER

Abstract

The present study aimed to describe the perception of users of the test for early detection of cervical cancer. Descriptive study conducted in five Basic Health Units in a city in the inland of the state of Ceará, from January to April 2015. Fifteen women who underwent routine screening tests for early detection of cervical cancer wereinterviewed. The data produced underwent content analysis and was classified into the following categories: user’s perception of the test, frequency of screenings, feelings experienced by the respondents and reasons for refusing cervical screening. The participants are aware of the purpose of the test and periodically undergo the screening. One reason for some women refusing cervical screening is that they do not want it performed by male doctors. Adherence is influenced by a relationship of trust with health professionals. It was concluded that the respondents perceive the test as important and that any possible reasons for refusing cervical screening can be avoided by improving provider-patient relationship in health care.

Keywords

• Quality of health care
• Women’s health
• Sexual and reproductive health
• Pap smear test
• Cervical neoplasias