Awareness and knowledge about cervical cancer and pap test among nursing staff at a rural tertiary care hospital

Background: Cervical cancer is a common gynecological malignancy and public health problem that can be prevented, but the utilization of screening is just 2.6%-5% in India. Healthcare providers mainly nursing personnel are crucial and play a vital role in raising awareness and educating the public about implementation of low-cost cervical cancer screening approaches in low-resource settings. Objectives were to determine baseline information about knowledge of cervical cancer and explore attitude and practice of pap smear screening among staff nurses. Methods: The questionnaire containing mostly recognition and some recall type questions about demographics, knowledge about cervical cancer, its risk factors, screening techniques, attitudes towards cervical cancer screening and its practices and their knowledge was tested. Results: Analyses of knowledge showed that majority of nurses recognized the risk factors and symptoms associated with carcinoma of cervix. A considerable lack of knowledge was observed on the treatment of cervical cancer but a significant portion of nurses knew about prevention. A positive attitude was observed on all aspects of cervical cancer and its prevention. Conclusions: This study demonstrates a good knowledge and positive attitude about carcinoma of cervix and its prevention amongst the nurses which plays a key role in the campaign to prevent cervical malignancy. Poor practice seen in this study emphasizes the need to translate the awareness to practice. Easier availability of HPV testing and better distribution of HPV vaccine is paramount to successfully prevent cervical cancer in future.