Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Women Attending One of the Health Facilities in Hhohho Region, Swaziland, in Relation to Cervical Cancer and Screening

Abstract

Background: In women cervical cancer is the leading cause of death among all cancers in developing countries, but it can be controlled through prevention and early detection of precursor lesions. In 2013 there were 223 new cases of cervical cancer in Swaziland with an estimated 118 cervical cancer related deaths. Most clients suffering from cervical cancer were below the age of 40 years and were diagnosed in the late stage. The study determined knowledge, attitudes and practices of women in relation to cervical cancer screening and treatment at one of the health facilities in the Hhohho Region, in Swaziland. Methodology: A quantitative-descriptive approach was utilized among 56 participants selected using purposive sampling. Respondents were women who came for health care services at the Health Facility’s Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) Department. The collected data were entered into SPSS and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation. Findings: Ninety-four percent (94.6%) of the respondents reported to have heard of cervical cancer, and 96.4% reported that screening for cervical cancer could detect symptoms before they appeared. Only 1.8% was aware of the association between cervical cancer and the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Thirty-seven percent (37.5%) of the respondents reported to have ever screened for cervical cancer. The major reasons reported for not screening were busy work schedule, and being turned back by nurses. There was a significant relationship between level of education and knowledge of risk factors for cervical cancer (r=0.306, p=0.022). Data also supported a significant relationship between age of the respondents and knowledge on how to protect self from getting cervical cancer(r=-0.402, p=0.002). Data supported a significant relationship between knowledge on risk factors and knowledge on how to protect self from acquiring cervical cancer (r=0.295, p=0.027). Recommendations: It is recommended that nursing practice should also focus on the provision of services to the working class by offering cervical cancer screening services on weekends and public holidays. Nurses need to be more responsive to clients’ health needs and avoid turning clients back.