KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PERCEPTION OF CERVICAL CANCER SCREENING AMONG WOMEN IN KAKUMIRO DISTRICT

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and perception (KAP) regarding cervical cancer screening among women in Kakumiro District, Uganda. Cervical cancer is a major public health concern globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where it remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women. Despite the availability of preventive measures such as HPV vaccination and screening, uptake remains low in many regions, including Uganda. Method: Using a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 253 women aged 18-49 years attending outpatient clinics at selected public health centers in Kakumiro District. The survey assessed the participants' knowledge of cervical cancer and its screening methods, their attitudes towards these preventive measures, and their perceived barriers to and facilitators of screening. Results: The results from the ANOVA indicate that both the level of knowledge and attitude towards cervical cancer significantly predict perceived barriers to screening (F (2, 250) = 20.079, p < .001). Specifically, higher levels of knowledge (β = .526, p < .001) and positive attitudes (β = .439, p < .001) are associated with fewer perceived barriers. Correlation analysis further reveals a significant positive relationship between knowledge and perceived barriers (r = .211, p < .01), whereas attitude does not show a significant direct correlation (r = .062, p > .05). Conclusion: These findings underscore the critical role of education and attitude modification in enhancing cervical cancer screening uptake. Effective interventions should focus on increasing awareness about cervical cancer and its prevention, as well as fostering positive attitudes towards screening. The insights from this study will guide the development of targeted strategies to improve cervical cancer screening rates in Kakumiro District and similar settings, ultimately reducing cervical cancer morbidity and mortality.