Journal of Dr. NTR University of Health Sciences (Jan 2021)
Knowledge, attitude, and practices of cervical cancer screening in health care providers in a teaching hospital
Abstract
Introduction: Cervical cancer is the most common cause of mortality and morbidity among women of reproductive age group in the world and is one of the few cancers amenable for prevention. Healthcare providers in hospitals (medical and nursing staff) constitute the most visible, front-line personnel play an integral role in educating women in the prevention of diseases, they can influence regarding cervical cancer screening adherence and health promotion among women. Aim and Objectives: The purpose of this study is to assess knowledge, attitude, and level of awareness regarding cervical cancer among female health care providers with respect to risk factors, screening methods, vaccination, and the barriers in the acceptance of cervical cancer vaccine. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study with self-administered, predesigned, questionnaire for knowledge of symptoms, screening, risk factors for cervical cancer and HPV vaccine in health care providers (n = 100) comprising doctors, nurses over duration of 2 months from May to June 2018 in teaching hospital setting on women aged between 21 and 65 years. Data was analyzed with SPSS17. Chi-square test used for statistical significance. Results: Mean age of respondents was 32.9 years (range 21–54 years). Most participants were aware that cervical cancer is the most common female genital cancer (94%), majority were able to identify the HPV as most important etiological factor (88%) and believed that screening may prevent cervical cancer (92%), awareness about HPV vaccine and screening was known fully in doctors but only 72% of nurses. Knowledge about cancer etiology and screening was low among nurses than doctors. Self-practice and vaccination was low in total study population. Conclusions: Knowledge and awareness on risk factors, cervical cancer screening, and HPV vaccination is more among doctors than on nursing staff, but self-practice and vaccination was low in total study subjects. Knowledge and awareness of cervical cancer among health care providers can help in promoting screening and early diagnosis, reducing cervical cancer morbidity and mortality.
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