Effect of Electronic Media Sources on Cervical Cancer Awareness Among Women in Kenya

Abstract

This chapter is based on a study set out to investigate the influence of electronic media in creating awareness about cervical cancer among women in Kenya at the Kenyatta National Hospital. Transtheoretical stages of change and Health Belief Model guided the study. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics in line with the study objectives, while qualitative data was analyzed thematically. The study findings indicated that radio and television had not played a key role in creating awareness about cervical cancer as less than 20% of respondents reported to have received their information from radio and televisions while over 74% reported to have received their information from other sources other than radio and television. This was despite the fact that more than 90% of the respondents reported to own a radio and/or a television. The study concluded that cervical cancer prevention cannot be achieved through messages on traditional media such as radio and television. It therefore recommended a multi-sectoral approach by relevant stakeholders through other diverse strategies such as interpersonal communication.