Influencing Elements Impacting the Participation in Cervical Cancer Screening Among Women of Childbearing Age at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital, Eastern Uganda

Abstract

This research aimed to gauge cervical cancer screening participation and its influencing factors among Women of Reproductive Age (WRA) at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital (JRRH) in Eastern Uganda. Conducted from January to April 2021, the study utilized a cross-sectional descriptive design, surveying 370 WRA through pretested semi-structured questionnaires. Analysis was performed using SPSS version 20, presenting outcomes through tables, frequencies, percentages, and logistic regression analyses. Among the 370 respondents, merely 24.3% (90 individuals) had undergone cervical cancer screening. Of these, 14.1% had one screening, 7.0% had two screenings, and 3.2% had been screened three or more times. The primary mode of screening (11%) occurred during medical camps. Regarding awareness, 89.7% had heard of cervical screening, predominantly through radio broadcasts (41.0%), with 41.4% recognizing its purpose and 52.4% acknowledging its role in early detection and treatment. Furthermore, 94.3% viewed cervical cancer screening as a beneficial practice, with 81.1% advocating for other women to undergo screening, while 90% believed in promoting this practice. Culturally and religiously, the acceptance of cervical cancer screening was widespread. Demographically, most respondents (66.5%) fell within the 15-30 age bracket, with the majority identifying as Anglicans (33.8%) and 88.9% being Ugandan nationals. Educational attainment was predominantly at the secondary (37.0%) and tertiary (39.2%) levels. Regression analysis indicated that being Anglican significantly influenced the uptake of cervical cancer screening [OR=2.219(1.039 – 3.899); 95% CI, P=0.038)]. Despite increased knowledge and awareness about cervical cancer screening’s purpose, treatment, and associated complications, uptake remains below desired levels. Notably, a substantial number of women did not seek screening due to the absence of signs or symptoms and lack of advice from medical professionals, exposing a gap in primary healthcare significance. The study underscores the need for heightened health education across healthcare platforms to emphasize the critical importance of cervical cancer screening and encourage more women to partake in this essential preventive practice. Keywords: Cancer, Women, Cervical cancer screening, Pap smear test