Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Women in the Southern Region of Saudi Arabia Regarding Cervical Cancer and the Pap Smear Test

Abstract

Background: The main barrier for women to receive Papanicolaou (Pap) smear tests and immunization is lack of<br />knowledge about the disease's signs and symptoms, women's attitudes toward prevention programs and cultural myths<br />and beliefs. Therefore, the main objective of this study is to measure women's knowledge, attitudes and practices about<br />cervical cancer and the Pap smear test in the southern region of Saudi Arabia and to assess the findings in relation with<br />women's demographics. Methods: A cross sectional survey was conducted at the Armed Forces Hospital Southern<br />Region Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic using a self-administered questionnaire with a sample size of 255 women<br />between the ages of 15 and 65 years. Results: Forty-three percent of the women in this region are aware of cervical<br />cancer, but do not recognize its risk factors, implications, timing or main cause, which is Human papillomavirus (HPV).<br />In fact, the primary source of information was obtained through social media. Only two women conducted Pap smear<br />test and that was based on doctor's referral, where women's main reason from not conducting the test was feeling good<br />and no need. Conclusions: There is a need, therefore, to create awareness programs for cervical cancer, its causes and<br />risk factors, as well as its preventive measures for women in the southern region of Saudi Arabia.