[Visual inspection with acetic acid and the control of cervical cancer in primary care].

Abstract

Introduction: Visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) is a primary alternative to reduce cervical cancer (CaCu) incidence and mortality. The study aimed to determine the proportion of women aged 30-49 years who used VIA in the last two years and the factors associated with the use of the test in the primary care setting.

Methods: Cross-sectional, multicenter study. Seven hundred and six women aged 30 to 49 years participated, users of primary health care centers in a region of Peru. The dependent variable was the use of the VIA test in the last two years and the independent variables were sociodemographic, socio-health, information and attitudinal factors.

Results: The proportion of women who used the VIA test was 30.6%. The following factors were associated with greater use of the test: urban area of residence, having received a recommendation for VIA, feeling worried about acquiring CaCu, having heard about CaCu and the human papilloma virus. Also, considering having a greater or equal probability of developing CaCu compared to women of the same age, and with lower use of the test, coming from the highlands and considering it risky to undergo VIA.

Conclusion: The VIA screening program for CaCu would not be achieving the desired impact. There is a need to strengthen strategies and interventions in primary care to improve screening behaviors and rates.