Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice on Cervical Cancer and Screening Among Women in India: A Review

Effectiveness of an educational intervention on knowledge and practice of young midwifery college students about IUD and Pap smear, Babol, Iran

OBJECTIVES

The high status of midwifery within the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) is closely tied to enhancing clinical education. The purpose of this study was to review the effect of education on the knowledge and practice of midwifery students about Intrauterine Device (IUD) and Pap smears.

METHODS

This quasi-experimental study was conducted over the course of four semesters, involving 128 bachelor of midwifery students. The sampling method was non-random, utilizing convenience sampling. Four consecutive 45 min weekly sessions were held, which included three theory sessions and one practical training session. Education was conducted in face-to-face training sessions using different methods such as lectures, question and answer, slide shows, educational films and brochures, and training participants with moulage. The data were gathered using a questionnaire covering demographic characteristics, various aspects of IUD and Pap smear knowledge, along with checklists for IUD insertion and Pap smear. Paired-samples T-test and multiple regression test were used to analyze the data. A significance level of p<0.05 was set for the analysis.

RESULTS

The results of this study showed that there was a significant difference in the average knowledge across various aspects of IUD and Pap smear before and after the intervention (p<0.001). On multiple regression analysis, residence and income significantly influenced knowledge (β=0.313, p=0.001 and β=-0.384, p=0.001, respectively). Also, multiple regression analysis indicated that the use of IUD among family or friends and age significantly impacted practice (β=-0.450, p=0.005 and β=-0.206, p=0.030, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The educational intervention yielded a noticeable enhancement in the knowledge and practical skills of midwifery students. These students tend to achieve higher levels of success and deliver superior services to both patients and clients.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices toward cervical cancer screening among ethnic minorities in inner Mongolia, China

AIMS

This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) towards cervical cancer screening among ethnic minorities in Inner Mongolia, China.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted in Inner Mongolia between May and September, 2023, and recruiting participants undergoing dual-cancer screening. Demographic characteristics and KAP status were assessed using a self-administered questionnaire.

RESULTS

A total of 533 valid questionnaires were collected, with 53.66% aged 40 years or younger. Mean scores for knowledge, attitude, and practice were 13.58 ± 5.41, 41.06 ± 4.53, and 13.35 ± 1.53, respectively. Positive associations were found between knowledge and attitude (r = 0.348, p < 0.001), knowledge and practice (r = 0.288, p < 0.001), and attitude and practice (r = 0.817, p < 0.001). Structural equation modelling confirmed direct positive associations between knowledge and attitude (path coefficient = 0.307, p < 0.001) and attitude and practice (path coefficient = 0.270, p < 0.001). Additionally, knowledge demonstrated an indirectly positive association with practice (path coefficient = 0.083, p = 0.007).

CONCLUSION

Ethnic minorities in Inner Mongolia exhibit insufficient knowledge, positive attitudes, and proactive practices toward cervical cancer screening. Implementing targeted educational initiatives is crucial to enhance their KAP.

Awareness data on cervical cancer among females of rural and urban areas of Haryana, India

A cross-sectional study was done to assess the degree of current awareness and behaviors about cervical cancer among females in urban and rural areas of North India. This survey was conducted on one thousand females (500 rural and 500 urban). A well-structured questionnaire was designed to collect information about participants' knowledge on cancer of cervix uteri such as age, height and weight measurements, marital status, menstrual status, personal hygiene, age at menarche, sexual history, pregnancy and abortion history, use of contraceptive pills for birth-control, smoking, alcohol consumption, and other relevant information. The data was collected by conducting face-to-face interviews after obtaining the verbal consent of the participants. The data has the potential to reduce disease burden by spreading awareness about symptoms and risk factors of cervical cancer as well as implementation of effective early screening strategies.

Knowledge about cervical cancer in young Portuguese women: a cross-sectional study

Introduction

Health literacy is crucial to adherence to medical interventions in therapeutics, prevention, and diagnosis. The basis for literacy is knowledge. To accomplish the goals for the elimination of cervical cancer, one of the most prevalent and preventable cancers, we must understand the determinants of non-adherence and address them specifically to ensure patients' active participation.

Aim

To determine women's knowledge regarding the manifestations of cervical cancer and its prevention.

Materials and methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study in an urban population from northern Portugal. Women aged 18 to 30 years were randomly assigned to answer the Cervical Cancer Awareness Measure questionnaire, including questions of knowledge about the causes and symptoms of cervical cancer, prospecting for individual and social-related determinants.

Results

The total number of participants was 270, with a mean age of 24.7 years. Knowledge about symptoms scored 5.4 ± 2.6, with a maximum of 12 points, and knowledge about the causes scored 5.7 ± 1.9, with a maximum of 11 points. The correlation between both was 0.334. High education, high socio-economic status, self-perception of one's capacity to recognize symptoms, and knowledge about the HPV vaccine were associated with better knowledge.

Discussion

Portuguese women present low knowledge about cervical cancer, potentially affecting their health through exposure to risk situations and non-adherence to routine screening.

Short video platforms as sources of health information about cervical cancer: A content and quality analysis

BACKGROUND

The development of short popular science video platforms helps people obtain health information, but no research has evaluated the information characteristics and quality of short videos related to cervical cancer. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the quality and reliability of short cervical cancer-related videos on TikTok and Kwai.

METHODS

The Chinese keyword "cervical cancer" was used to search for related videos on TikTok and Kwai, and a total of 163 videos were ultimately included. The overall quality of these videos was evaluated by the Global Quality Score (GQS) and the modified DISCERN tool.

RESULTS

A total of 163 videos were included in this study, TikTok and Kwai contributed 82 and 81 videos, respectively. Overall, these videos received much attention; the median number of likes received was 1360 (403-6867), the median number of comments was 147 (40-601), and the median number of collections was 282 (71-1296). In terms of video content, the etiology of cervical cancer was the most frequently discussed topic. Short videos posted on TikTok received more attention than did those posted on Kwai, and the GQS and DISCERN score of videos posted on TikTok were significantly better than those of videos posted on Kwai. In addition, the videos posted by specialists were of the highest quality, with a GQS and DISCERN score of 3 (2-3) and 2 (2-3), respectively. Correlation analysis showed that GQS was significantly correlated with the modified DISCERN scores (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the quality and reliability of cervical cancer-related health information provided by short videos were unsatisfactory, and the quality of the videos posted on TikTok was better than that of videos posted on Kwai. Compared with those posted by individual users, short videos posted by specialists provided higher-quality health information.

Cervical cancer incidence, mortality, and burden in China: a time-trend analysis and comparison with England and India based on the global burden of disease study 2019

Background

Cervical cancer is the fourth highest incidence of malignancy in the world and a common cause of cancer death in women. We assessed the trends of incidence and mortality and disability-adjusted life year (DALY) in China, England and India from 1990 to 2030.

Method

Data were obtained from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database. We collected the number and rate of incidence, death and DALY from 1990 to 2019 and calculated the estimated annual percentage change (EAPC). Further analysis was carried out by ages and years. We also collected attributable risk factors to cervical cancer. Finally, we utilized the Bayesian Age-Period-Cohort (BAPC) model to forecast trends in the rate of age-standardized incidence (ASIR) and age-standardized death (ASDR) the for the next decade.

Result

Globally, the incidence of cervical cancer cases increased from 335,641.56 in 1990 to 565,540.89 in 2019. In 2019, the ASIR and ASDR of cervical cancer were higher than those of India but lower than those of England. Furthermore, unsafe sex and smoking emerge as prominent risk factors for cervical cancer. Over the next decade, ASIR and ASDR are expected to decline in China and England, while India's ASIR is still on an upward trend and ASDR is on a downward trend.

Conclusion

The epidemiological data of cervical cancer in these three countries reflects the influence of different stages of development and healthcare systems. Trends over the next decade suggest that China and India still face a huge burden of cervical cancer. When England has made significant progress, China and India need to take more measures to improve the prevention and control of cervical cancer.

Rates of Compliance in South Indian American Communities of Southern California Regarding Cancer Screening

BACKGROUND

Studies have shown lower rates of cancer screening and high mortality rates among all Asian Americans than among non-Hispanic White populations. However, most of these studies often confound diverse Asian American subgroups with limited data on cancer screening for Indian Americans, with this group being particularly interesting because of their counterintuitive socioeconomic status. For this reason, the objective of this study is to evaluate knowledge of the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) cancer screening guidelines and compliance among South Indian Americans residing in Southern California.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study gathering community responses through an electronic survey. The survey reports knowledge of USPSTF screening guidelines and participant compliance rates. Rates were further compared to non-Hispanic White populations from official sources.

RESULTS

South Indian Americans residing in California had lower rates of compliance for colorectal, lung, and breast cancer screening when compared to that of non-Hispanic White populations in the same region, with the exception of cervical cancer screening rates.

CONCLUSION

Understanding the cultural characteristics of special populations, such as Indian Americans, can help communities adhere to more effective screening practices that can improve outcomes.

Comparison of Colposcopy and Histopathology in Abnormal Cervix

Cervicovaginal cancer (CVC) is the most common malignancy of the genital tract. Colposcopy is a diagnostic procedure that is used to examine the cervix and tissue samples of the urethra and vulva in a magnified view. The colposcopy and histological findings of unhealthy cervixes in a tertiary care hospital were compared. This comparative cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2022 to March 2023 among women with a variety of gynecological complaints who visited the Department of Obstetricians and Gynecologists in a tertiary care facility. One hundred participants were included in this study. The data collected were analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2016 (Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, Washington, United States). Participants had an average age of 35.22 ± 7.18 years, and white discharge was the most reported ailment (73%). Comparing the results of the colposcopy with the histological findings revealed a sensitivity of 91.5% and a specificity of 72.2%. The high sensitivity of colposcopy highlights the need to combine it with histological techniques to obtain better results.

Demographic and socioeconomic factors associated with cervical cancer screening among women in Serbia

Objectives

Effective reduction of cervical cancer incidence and mortality requires strategic measures encompassing the implementation of a cost-effective screening technology. Serbia has made significant strides, introducing organized cervical cancer screening in 2012. However, various impediments to screening implementation persist. The aim of the study was to estimate the socioeconomic factors associated with cervical cancer screening among women in Serbia.

Methods

Data from 2019 National Health Survey of the population of Serbia were used in this study. The study is cross sectional survey on a representative sample of the population of Serbia. Present total number of participants analyzed in survey 6,747.

Results

In Serbia, 67.2% of women have done a Pap test at any time during their lives, of which 46.1% of women have undergone cervical cancer screening in the past 3 years. About a quarter of women have never undergone a Pap test in their life (24.3%). The probability of never having a Pap test have: the youngest age group (15-24 years) is 1.3 times more likely than the oldest age group (OR = 1.31), unmarried women 0.3 times more often than married women (OR = 0.37), respondents with basic education 0.9 times more often than married women (OR = 0.98), the women of lower socioeconomic status 0.5 times more often than respondents of high socioeconomic status (OR = 0.56).

Conclusion

Enhancement of the existing CCS would be the appropriate public health approach to decrease the incidence and mortality of cervical cancer in the Republic of Serbia.

Cervical Cancer Screening Barriers Among Citizens of Jeddah

INTRODUCTION

The cervix, a cylindrical structure made of stroma and epithelium, is the lowest point of the uterus. A tissue-proven biopsy of the cervix with histological confirmation is necessary for aberrant cytologic results of Papanicolaou (Pap) smears to rule out cervical cancer. This study investigates barriers to cervical cancer screening among women.

METHODOLOGY

 A cross-sectional study including 665 Saudi Arabian women residing in Jeddah between the ages of 21 and 65 years was carried out from May to November 2023. A four-part online survey was used to gather the data, which included questions about demographics, cervical cancer screening status, screening barriers, and predictors of cervical cancer screening.

RESULTS

The most common barrier to Pap test screening was "have not been to a doctor/no regular provider" (39.7%, N = 251), followed by "lack of provider recommendation/or limited or no information in the community" (30.4%, N = 192) and "low priority/did not perceive need/being healthy" (27.7%, N = 175).

CONCLUSION

The study provides valuable insights into the factors influencing cervical cancer screening in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The low prevalence of screening indicates a need for increased awareness and targeted interventions to improve uptake.

Knowledge on cervical cancer among Indian women in the state of Gujarat

Women all around the world are affected by Cervical Cancer (CC). Nearly 5, 00,000 women were diagnosed with cervical cancer and more than 270,000 women die every year. Cervical Cancer is the second most typical form of Cancer in females worldwide. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of an awareness programme on knowledge and attitude regarding CC among women. Quasi experimental research design was selected to evaluate the effectiveness of an awareness programme. Non-probability convenient sampling method was used to select 60 women from setting. Self-prepared multiple choice questionnaire was used to assess the knowledge level of women and 5 point likert scale (uni-dimensional scale for collecting opinion) was used to assess the attitude level of women. The Results were discussed by using mean, SD, paired "t" test and chi-square test. Data were collected & gathered. Knowledge levels were 2.87±1.50 and attitude level was 6.37±13.35 reported in the control group. But the knowledge and attitude levels in the experimental group were respectively 9.73±2.60 and 12.87±14.72. It concluded that the CC awareness program was successful in changing women's attitudes through knowledge.

Knowledge, Attitudes and Behaviors of Clients Regarding Cervical Cancer Screening at Gynecology Consultations of the University Hospital of Cocody

Background

Cervical cancer (CC) is a public health problem because of its increasing prevalence and mortality in low- and middle-income countries.

Objective

To study knowledge, attitudes, and practices about CC and screening among women in a referral hospital in Côte d'Ivoire, a sub-Saharan African country.

Materials and Methods

A cross-sectional study, from September 1, 2020 to March 1, 2021, in the obstetric gynecology consultation unit of the University Hospital of Cocody. It included patients who gave informed consent. Data were collected using a questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using Epi data 3.1 software (CDC Atlanta-USA).

Results

1200 women were included (47.2%) with a mean age of 32 years. General knowledge ranged from 6.2 to 32.7% and main risk factors were advanced age (75.2%), HIV infection (60.3%), early marriage (38.2%), and multiple sexual partners (25.8%). 975 women were able to provide a response (81.3%). 85.2% of women identified signs and symptoms: vaginal bleeding (83.6%), intermenstrual bleeding (65.1%), and foul-smelling discharge (11.9%). The level of knowledge of screening was 79% for PAP smear, 72.6% for VIA and 14.2% for LBC. A positive attitude was observed since 87.8% declared they wanted to perform screening. A significant practice (60.4%) was demonstrated, and the screening tests used were visual inspection with acetic acid (52.6%), Pap smear (39.8%) and liquid-based cytology (7.6%).

Conclusion

We revealed a good knowledge of reality of CC, but effective information, education and communication strategies are needed to improve the level of awareness about risk factors, symptoms and preventive methods.

Comparison of Human Papillomavirus Genotype Detection in Paired Urine and Self-Collected Cervical Swabs: A Pilot Study

OBJECTIVES

With the objective of establishing a simple, cost-effective, and effective screening tool for the screening of Human Papilloma Virus infection, the study was undertaken.

MATERIAL METHODS

This pilot study was conducted on 20 urine samples of women whose cervical swabs were tested positive while screening for Human papilloma virus in asymptomatic women.

RESULTS

HPV genotypes were detected in 94% (16/17) patients in urine samples by real-time PCR while a 100% detection rate (15/15) was observed in the cervical swab samples. The results of the urine and cervical swab samples, tested by the TRUPCR ®HPV high-risk genotyping kit, are shown in Table 2. HPV genotype 68 was found in 82.3% urinary samples and 100% of self-collected vaginal swab samples. Out of 16 positive urine samples, 2 were positive for HPV genotype 16 and 5 were positive for HPV genotype 18, and in cervical swab testing out of 15 positive samples, 3 were positive for HPV genotype 16, and 5 were positive for HPV genotype 18. Diagnostic accuracy of urine was found to be 98.8% (95% CI 79.43% - 100.00%).

CONCLUSION

This pilot study aims to assess the accuracy of urine samples in the screening of HPV infection among asymptomatic women and establish the distribution of prevalent HPV genotypes. This may further contribute to standardizing the urine and cervical swab testing methods for cervical cancer screening strategies.

Knowledge, attitude and practice towards cervical cancer screening among women living with human immunodeficiency virus: Implication for prevention strategy uptake

AIM

To explore the knowledge, attitude and practices of cervical cancer screening among HIV-infected women in public health facilities in Lusaka, Zambia.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

METHODS

The study was conducted from 1st January 2020 to 28th February 2020. We used a structured questionnaire for data collection. The Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was used to analyse relationships among latent variables (knowledge, attitude and practice).

RESULTS

The overall knowledge, attitude, and practice scores of cervical cancer screening among women living with HIV were 6.86/11 (62.4%), 6.41/7 (91.6%) and 2.92/8 (36.5%), respectively. Overall, knowledge was positively and significantly associated with attitude (r = .53, p < .001) and practice (r = .38, p < 0.001). Additionally, attitude and practice were significantly associated (r = 0.29, p < .001). Our findings support the reinforcement of current public health interventional programmes to improve the knowledge about cervical cancer and screening uptake.

Geographic, Demographic, and Socioeconomic Disparities and Factors Associated With Cancer Literacy in China: National Cross-sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Cancer literacy is associated with several health-related behaviors and outcomes. However, there is still a lack of nationwide surveys for cancer literacy in China.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate cancer literacy in China, explore disparities, and provide scientific evidence for policy makers.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted in mainland China in 2021 using the multistage probability proportional to the size sampling method. Both the reliability and validity of the questionnaire were evaluated. The awareness levels were adjusted by sampling weights and nonrepresentativeness weights to match the actual population distributions. The Rao-Scott adjusted chi-square test was applied to test geographic, demographic, and socioeconomic disparities. A generalized linear model was used to explore potential factors.

RESULTS

A total of 80,281 participants aged 15-74 years were finally enrolled from 21 provinces, with an overall response rate of 89.32%. The national rate of cancer literacy was 70.05% (95% CI 69.52%-70.58%). The rates were highest regarding knowledge of cancer management (74.96%, 95% CI 74.36%-75.56%) but were lowest regarding basic knowledge of cancer (66.77%, 95% CI 66.22%-67.33%). Cancer literacy was highest in East China (72.65%, 95% CI 71.82%-73.49%), Central China (71.73%, 95% CI 70.65%-72.81%), and North China (70.73%, 95% CI 68.68%-72.78%), followed by Northeast (65.38%, 95% CI 64.54%-66.22%) and South China (63.21%, 95% CI 61.84%-64.58%), whereas Southwest (59.00%, 95% CI 58.11%-59.89%) and Northwest China (57.09%, 95% CI 55.79%-58.38%) showed a need for improvement. Demographic and socioeconomic disparities were also observed. Urban dwellers, the Han ethnic group, and population with higher education level or household income were associated with prior knowledge. The questionnaire showed generally good internal and external reliability and validity.

CONCLUSIONS

It remains important for China to regularly monitor levels of cancer literacy, narrow disparities, and strengthen health education for dimensions with poor performance and for individuals with limited knowledge to move closer to the goal of Healthy China 2030.

Prevention Strategies and Early Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer: Current State and Prospects

Cervical cancer ranks third among all new cancer cases and causes of cancer deaths in females. The paper provides an overview of cervical cancer prevention strategies employed in different regions, with incidence and mortality rates ranging from high to low. It assesses the effectiveness of approaches proposed by national healthcare systems by analysing data published in the National Library of Medicine (Pubmed) since 2018 featuring the following keywords: "cervical cancer prevention", "cervical cancer screening", "barriers to cervical cancer prevention", "premalignant cervical lesions" and "current strategies". WHO's 90-70-90 global strategy for cervical cancer prevention and early screening has proven effective in different countries in both mathematical models and clinical practice. The data analysis carried out within this study identified promising approaches to cervical cancer screening and prevention, which can further enhance the effectiveness of the existing WHO strategy and national healthcare systems. One such approach is the application of AI technologies for detecting precancerous cervical lesions and choosing treatment strategies. As such studies show, the use of AI can not only increase detection accuracy but also ease the burden on primary care.

Public Knowledge, Practice, and Attitude Regarding Cancer Screening: A Community-Based Study in Saudi Arabia

(1) Background: Cancer screening tests discover cancer at early stages, even before symptoms appear. When abnormal tissues or a malignant mass is found early, treatment and cure rates are improved. In late stages, the cancer may have grown and metastasized. This can negatively affect cancer treatment and reduce the overall survival rate. Screening tests are performed when a person is asymptomatic. Public awareness about cancer screening is crucial for the success of cancer screening programs and for consequently decreasing the morbidity and mortality rate due to cancer. (2) Aim: Assess the knowledge and perception of the community regarding cancer screening in Saudi Arabia. (3) Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study targeting the general population of Saudi Arabia was conducted from January to June 2022. The data were collected using a structured validated electronic questionnaire. The study questionnaire covered participants' personal data, medical history, source of data, and participants' knowledge, attitude, and practice items. The questionnaire was used as a digital survey and was distributed electronically to the target population. (4) Results: A total of 1313 participants completed the study questionnaire. The participants' ages ranged from 18 to 67 years, with a mean age of 28.3 ± 11.4 years old. Overall, 60.4% of the study participants knew about cancer screening. Regarding the benefits of cancer screening, 91.8% of the participants reported knowing that the early detection of cancer helps treatment, and 81.1% knew that the early detection of cancer improves treatment outcomes. Moreover, 441 (33.6%) of the participants had good knowledge regarding cancer and cancer screening, while 872 (66.4%) had poor levels of knowledge. Furthermore, 106 (8.1%) of the participants underwent cancer screening. (5) Conclusions: The study results revealed that participants' awareness regarding cancer and cancer screening was low, especially for approaches to reduce cancer risk. Additionally, the study participants' practice regarding cancer screening was low. The health care authority should plan for population-based efficacious cancer screening programs. In addition, cancer screening information and the benefits of early detection can be disseminated through social media to target the desired populations.

Using planned behavior theory to understand cervical cancer screening intentions in Chinese women

Introduction

Cervical cancer is still one of the cancers threatening the health of Chinese women with high morbidity and mortality. However, the participation rate of cervical cancer screening (CCS) among women is low due to various reasons, so it is crucial to understand the factors that influence women's willingness to be screened for cervical cancer. This study's goal was to understand the intention of cervical cancer screening in Chinese women using the theory of planned behavior (TPB).

Methods

An online questionnaire was administered to 286 women using a cross-sectional design. The questionnaire was created using the theory of planned behavior and included demographic characteristics as well as the basic structure of TPB.

Results

Descriptive, correlation, and multiple linear regression models were performed to identify factors associated with cervical cancer screening behavior. 286 respondents completed the survey (95.3%). The mean scores for behavioral attitude, subjective norm and perceived behavioral control (PBC) were 32.50 (SD = 3.30), 22.59 (SD = 2.80) and 29.57 (SD = 3.37). From the regression analysis, behavioral attitude (B = 0.110, p = 0.001), subjective norm (B = 0.234, p = 0.000) and perceived behavioral control (B = 0.171, p = 0.000) were statistically significant in terms of intention.

Discussion

This study provided a reference for improving the intention of cervical cancer screening in women.

Increasing cervical cancer screening in Iran: effectiveness of a theory-based educational intervention

Purpose of study

The high mortality rate of cervical cancer in developing countries is mainly related to inefficient screening programs. The aim of the present study was, thus, to determine the effect of an educational intervention based on BASNEF (Belief, Attitudes, Subjective Norms, and Enabling Factors) model on increasing the rate of cervical cancer screening (CCS) in Bandar Deir in the south of Iran.

Methods

A quasi-experimental educational intervention was made with 202 women participants (101 in the intervention group (IG) and 101 in the control group (CG)) in 2019–20. The sampling was convenience in type. The data were collected using a reliable and valid tripartite questionnaire (demographic information, knowledge, BASNEF constructs). A total number of 14 training sessions were held each taking 60 min, at two levels, personal and interpersonal (for family members, health workers and healthcare givers). Finally, there was a three-month follow-up held in December 2021.

Results

After the training, a statistically significant difference was found between the IG and CG in all model constructs (p < 0.001). Before the intervention, in the IG, the personal health score was 4.35 ± 2.52, which was increased to 5.25 ± 0.753 after the training (p < 0.001). However, in the CG, the difference was not statistically significant (p < 0.030). 63.4% of women in the IG and 32.7% in the CG performed the CCS and the between-group difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Attitude, enabling factors and behavioral intention were the main predictors of CCS.

Conclusion

The present findings showed though the training intervention based on the BASNEF model had limited resources and was run in a short time, it managed to motivate women to perform the CCS. It could maximally remove barriers at both personal and interpersonal levels and suggest strategies in the light of these barriers to achieve a successful screening program.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12978-022-01489-5.

Cervical cancer is the fourth most prevalent fatal cancer among women on a global scale, and is one of the few cancers that can be prevented through screening. The high mortality rate of cervical cancer in developing countries, including Iran, has been largely attributed to inefficient screening programs. In developing countries cervical cancer screening programs are far from qualified. Yet, theory-based educational interventions can play an important role in promoting CCS behavior. Therefore, the present study was designed to determine the effect of an educational intervention based on the Beliefs, Attitudes, Subjective Norms and Enabling Factors (BASNEF model on increasing CCS in women in the south of Iran. BASNEF model includes beliefs about behavioral outcomes, attitudes toward behavior, subjective norms and enabling factors. The most significant construct in BASNEF model is the behavior change. Beliefs and attitudes are influenced by culture, values, traditions, education, media, and personal experiences. Subjective norms include family, society, social media, and peer pressure. Enabling factors include income, women’s status, time, and skills. This model can be proposed as a new educational method. A quasi-experimental two-group (pretest–posttest) study was conducted in 2019–2020 on 202 women (101 in the intervention group, and 101 in the control group). In the intervention group, 14 training sessions (10 at the personal level and 4 at the interpersonal level) were held between 40 and 60 min’ long. In the control group, 1 training session was held in 6 groups of 15–20. It was 60 min’ long. The follow-up was held three months after the intervention. The results showed that the educational intervention, by affecting the BASNEF constructs, significantly affected women’s CCS behavior. Maximizing barriers at both personal and interpersonal levels and suggesting strategies based on these barriers can help achieve a successful screening program. In particular, we call for the implementation of goal-oriented training programs according to health education and health promotion models to increase the rate of CCS behavior.

Impact of cervical cancer on the sexual and physical health of women diagnosed with cervical cancer in Ghana: A qualitative phenomenological study

INTRODUCTION

Although cervical cancer is preventable, it is a major gynecological disorder among women currently. More than 500,000 new cases of cervical cancer are being diagnosed across the globe, with one woman dying of cervical cancer every 2 min. In addition, about half of cervical cancer survivors have challenges with their sexual function. Despite these findings, literature regarding the sexual function of women with cervical cancer is scanty. The study aims to assess cervical cancer's impact on the sexual and physical health of women diagnosed with cervical cancer in Ghana.

METHODS

The researchers of this study employed a qualitative approach with phenomenological design. A purposive sampling technique was used to select 30 participants engaged in face-to-face in-depth interviews that were audio-recorded. The content of the transcripts was analyzed using content analysis.

RESULTS

This study revealed that cervical cancer patients experienced low libido due to the cervical cancer symptoms and the side effects of chemotherapy. This low libido made them divert their sexual gratification from the vagina to other centers of the body. Findings further revealed that some participants showed apathy toward their partners' sexual feelings. Some physical problems experienced by the participants were also unraveled.

CONCLUSION

Cervical cancer affects all aspects of a woman's health, including sexual function and physical well-being. Therefore, there is the need for more to help address challenges faced by cervical cancer women about their sexual and physical health.