Understanding Women's Awareness of Cervical Cancer at Mt. St. Mary’s Hospital in the Kasese District, Uganda

Abstract

The investigation aimed to evaluate the level of awareness and understanding concerning cervical cancer among female attendees of the gynecology clinic at St. Mary’s Hospital in the Diocese of Kasese (DOK), Uganda. Utilizing a cross-sectional approach, data was collected from a sample of 100 women through structured questionnaires. Although all participants were familiar with cervical cancer, the study revealed significant gaps in their awareness. Only 84% recognized the existence of cervical cancer screening, and merely 16% were aware of the recommended screening interval of three years for non-immunosuppressed women. Moreover, responses varied regarding the age for initial screening, with 40% suggesting screening before 25 years, 20% proposing screening between 25 to 64 years, and 4% indicating symptom-based screening. While 59% acknowledged the preventability of cervical cancer and could identify preventive measures, knowledge about risk factors remained insufficient. For instance, 69% were uncertain about or denied smoking as a risk factor, while less than three-quarters recognized viral causes (59%) and the link between sexually transmitted infections (71%) and weakened immune systems (45%) as potential risks. The study highlights a substantial lack of knowledge regarding cervical cancer among women, despite existing communication strategies in place. Keywords: Cervical cancer, vaginal bleeding, Gynecology, Sexual partners, Coital bleeding.