Utilization of cervical cancer screening services and associated factors among women of reproductive age in Kisarawe district coast region

Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer related morbidity and mortality in women in Tanzania. Early detection and prevention of cervical cancer can reduce morbidity and mortality due to cervical cancer. Despite the existence of cervical cancer screening cervices by using Visual Inspection by Acetic Acid (VIA), the utilization of the service is still very low. Study Aim: The aim of the study was to determine the level of utilization of cervical cancer screening services and its associated factors among women of reproductive age in Kisarawe district, Coast region. Methods: A cross sectional population-based study was conducted among 414 women aged 15-49 years in Kisarawe District. Structured questionnaires were used to collect information. The outcome variable was utilization of cervical screening services. Bivariate analysis was done to investigate the association between the dependent and independent variables. Ethical clearance was sought prior to the study and informed consent obtained from each participant. Results: Of the 414 respondents, 13.8% reported to have ever been screened for cervical cancer and 49% were aware of the availability of screening services. Knowledge on cervical cancer symptoms, risk factors and prevention methods was insufficient. Factors that significantly influenced utilization of cervical cancer screening services were age 40+, being a Christian, employed and whether divorced/separated/widowed. Some misconceptions regarding risk factors for cervical cancer prevailed among the respondents. Barriers of utilization of cervical screening services included not knowing where to go for screening, lack of bus fare and fear of being screened by a male provider. Three quarters of the women perceived that the cervical cancer screening prevents development of cancer and enhances quality of life to women Conclusion: Utilization of cervical cancer screening services in the studied area is quite low. Targeted interventions are needed to improve the level of utilization of screening services. There is a need for integrating cervical screening services into the existing RCH services all over the country to enable women to utilize the service.