Knowledge and acceptance of cervical cancer screening among women: Ngombe community,Lusaka

Abstract

Cancer of the cervix remains the most common malignant neoplasm of the female genitalia and the second most common cancer in women (WHO/ICO, 2010). Cancer screening tests serve to detect the possibility that a cancer is present. It has also shown to be effective in reducing the incidence and mortality from cervical cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that a one-time screening among women around the age of 40 could reduce the chance of fatality due to cervical cancer by 25-30% if adequately followed up. Since cervical cancer usually progresses slowly, this once-in-a-lifetime screening could prevent abnormal cells from becoming fatal (WHO-ACCP, 2009). The main objective of the study was to determine the knowledge and acceptability of Cervical Cancer Screening among women in Ng'ombe community, Lusaka. The hypothesis for the study was: there is a relationship between knowledge of cervical cancer and acceptability of cervical cancer screening. A non experimental quantitative methodology using a descriptive study design was used in the study. A probability sampling method called simple random sampling was used to select the sample. The sample consisted of 50 women aged 35 years and above accessing care at Ng'ombe Health Center. Data was collected using a structured interview schedule. Data were analyzed manually using a scientific calculator and SPSS version 16.0 for significant statistics. The study findings revealed that slightly above half 28(56%) of the respondents had low knowledge of cervical cancer and screening services. It also revealed that more than half 34 (68%) of the respondents had never been screened for cervical cancer.