Document Type
Article
Department
Community Health Sciences
Abstract
Objective: To determine the knowledge regarding cervical cancer, its symptoms and risk factors among women of 18 years and above attending the gynecology OPD in two public hospitals Karachi, Pakistan.
Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was held from February to June 2013 in Karachi, Pakistan. 384 females aged 18 years and above attending gynecology clinics in two public sector hospitals were taken through non-probability sampling method. The knowledge was assessed using a point scale method which had binary response i.e. correct and incorrect. A score of 50% (≥ 11 correct responses) was considered as optimum knowledge.
Results: Overall knowledge of cervical cancer was 23% based on scoring. Multiparity (29.1%) and unsafe sexual practice (21.8%) were mostly reported risk factors. Vaginal discharge (23.1%) were commonly reported presenting features of cervical cancer. Uptake of pap smear was 11% among all women. Women with younger had much less knowledge (AOR: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.14 - 0.71) as compare to middle age. Women with no education and 3 or more children were less likely to have sufficient knowledge (AOR: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.51 - 0.89) as compared to the educated. Women with 6 or more children were less likely to have sufficient knowledge (AOR: 0.44, 95% CI: 0.2 - 0.68) as compared to the women with less than 3 children. Married women were more likely to have enough knowledge (AOR: 1.2, 95% CI: 1.01 - 3.11) as compare to unmarried women.
Conclusion: Insufficient knowledge of cervical cancer and about its screening services was found among general population. Establishing strategies for spreading awareness and provision of preventive services is essential through health care providers and media advocacy. Hence to improve health seeking behaviour and enhance early screening rates.
Publication (Name of Journal)
EC GYNAECOLOGY
Recommended Citation
Razzaq, S.,
Sayeeda Amber Sayed, S. A.,
Ali, S. A.
(2017). Knowledge and Awareness Regarding Cervical Cancer and Uptake of Pap Smear among Women in Karachi, Pakistan. EC GYNAECOLOGY, 4(4), 154-161.
Available at:
https://ecommons.aku.edu/pakistan_fhs_mc_chs_chs/370
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Included in
Obstetrics and Gynecology Commons, Pathological Conditions, Signs and Symptoms Commons, Pathology Commons, Women's Health Commons