KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICE TOWARDS CERVICAL CANCER AND SCREENING AMONG MARKET WOMEN IN MILE 3 DIOBU, RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA
Abstract
Background: Cervical cancer remains a significant public health concern among women in Nigeria, largely due to limited awareness and poor screening practices. Although effective prevention strategies such as Human papilloma virus vaccination, cervical screening awareness and utilization remain low, particularly among women in the informal sector. Cervical cancer prevention is facilitated through health education, HPV vaccination advocacy, and promotion of screening services at community levels. However, interventions require an understanding of women’s knowledge, attitudes, and perceived barriers.
Objective: This study assessed the knowledge, attitude, and practice toward cervical cancer and its screening among market women in Port Harcourt Local Government Area, Port Harcourt.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered to 202 respondents. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize knowledge, attitudes, practices, and barriers to screening.
Results: 126 (62.37%) of respondents had heard of cervical cancer, only 26 (12.87%) demonstrated very good knowledge, with an overall mean knowledge score of 2.52, indicating a fair level of knowledge. Despite this, actual screening practice was low: only 22 (10.83%) had ever undergone screening, and 14 (6.93%) reported regular annual screening. Major barriers identified. High cost was the most commonly reported barrier, with 111 respondents (54.95%) either strongly agreeing or agreeing that screening is expensive. This item had the highest mean score (mean = 2.58). Barriers were measured using a four-point Likert scale (Strongly Agree = 4, Agree = 3, Disagree = 2, Strongly Disagree = 1), and mean scores were calculated using a weighted mean approach.
Conclusion: Awareness and attitudes toward cervical cancer screening among market women are moderate, actual practice remains poor. The study recommends intensified health education, subsidized screening services, and improved accessibility to enhance early detection and prevention among women
