Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Prevalence and Associated Factors among Women in the South African General Population

Abstract

Purpose: The aims of the study were to estimate the prevalence of breast and cervical cancer screening among<br />women in the South African general population and assess associated factors. Methods: Data from a national populationbased<br />cross-sectional household survey in South Africa in 2012 for 10,831 women aged 30+ years were analysed using<br />bivariate and multivariable logistic regression. The outcome variables were cervical cancer screening (Papanicolaou<br />smear test) and breast cancer screening (mammography). Exposure variables were sociodemographic factors, lifestyle<br />variables, and chronic conditions. Results: The prevalences of Papanicolaou (PAP) smear test and mammography<br />participation were 52.0% and 13.4%, respectively. On multivariable logistic regression analysis, women with higher<br />education, those who were non-black African, having medical aid and having chronic conditions were more likely to<br />undergo a Pap smear test and mammography. Living in rural areas was related to a lower likelihood of receiving both<br />types of screening. In addition, undertaking moderate or vigorous physical activity was associated with breast cancer<br />screening. Conclusion: Screening for cervical cancer was relatively high but for breast cancer it was low, despite the<br />latter being a major public health problem in South Africa. This may be attributed to the limited availability, affordability,<br />and accessibility of breast cancer screening services among socio-economically disadvantaged individuals There are<br />some socio-economic disparities in adopting both breast and cervical cancer screening guidelines that could be targeted<br />by interventions.