Cervical Cancer Screening Uptake and associated factors among women of reproductive age (21-49 years) attending Amach Health Centre-IV in Lira District

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Date

2023

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Publisher

Lira University

Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer is a significant global health concern, ranking as the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide. Fortunately, early screening and effective management can prevent its progression. However, the uptake of cervical cancer screening varies across different regions, remaining suboptimal in developing countries such as Uganda. This study aimed to assess the level of cervical cancer screening uptake and identify associated factors among women aged 21 to 49 years attending Amach Health Centre in Lira district, Uganda. Methodology: A mixed methods approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques. The study included 312 randomly selected women who participated in face-to-face interviews using structured questionnaires and key informant interviews with health workers. The data was analyzed using STATA software, including descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression. Results: The findings revealed that only 44.8% of the 310 interviewed women had ever undergone cervical cancer screening. The predictors of cervical cancer screening include: not being in a marital relationship (Apr: 2.767, 95% CI: 1.463-5.231, p=0.002), poor knowledge about cervical cancer (Apr: 0.561, 95% CI: 0.374-0.843, p=0.005), not being familiar with screening modalities (Apr: 0.653, 95% CI: 0.441-0.966, p=0.33), and women whose decisions were made by their spouses (Apr: 0.510, 95% CI: 0.271-0.961, p=0.05). Conclusion: About 4 in 10 women had undergone cervical cancer screening by the time of the study. This study underscores the importance of addressing barriers to cervical cancer screening in Uganda, particularly among women of reproductive age in rural areas. Recommendations should target improving access to cervical cancer screening through sensitization of the community and making services available. Keywords: Cervical Cancer Screening Uptake, Women, Reproductive Age

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Keywords

Cervical Cancer Screening Uptake, Women, Reproductive Age

Citation

Kasongo, J., Kumakech, E., and Kigongo, M. (2023). Cervical Cancer Screening Uptake and associated factors among women of reproductive age (21-49 years) attending Amach Health Centre-IV in Lira District