P-36 The knowledge, perception and practice of women towards cervical cancer screening who attended the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Clinic of the New Amsterdam Regional Hospital over a 3 months period
Author(s):
M Reddi, M Perreira, B King, S Singh
Year of Presentation:
2024
Objective: To assess patients knowledge of cervical cancer screening and to determine the factors that prevent it.
Methods: This study used a descriptive - qualitative design and was conducted at the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Clinic of the New Amsterdam Hospital between May and July 2023. The researcher administered a structured questionnaire.
Results: There were 428 participants, 37.3% (n=149) of the participants had heard about cervical cancer screening but only 26.2% (n=112) had been screened. The main motivation for screening was due to the health awareness activity 43.3% (n=185) and recommendation from doctors 28.8% (n=123). Of those screened, 70% stated that they were screened once while 18% were screened twice. Interestingly, 26.3% (n=112) believe that screening was not necessary if there were no signs or symptoms and that screening leads to infertility 53.6 (n=229). The major perceived barrier to effective cervical cancer screening was fear of results 38.4%(n=164).
Conclusion: There is poor knowledge and practice regarding cervical cancer screening among Guyanese women. The World Health Organization implemented a global strategy to screen 70% of women between the ages of 35 to 45 by 2030. To achieve this, greater emphasis must be placed on health promotion geared at clearing misconceptions associated with screening and educating the population about the need for effective screening.