Thovarayi, SB and Noronha, Judith Angelitta and Nayak, S (2014) Cervical cancer screening practices among rural Indian women. International Journal of Nursing Care, 2 (2). pp. 73-77. ISSN 2320-8651

PDF 79-83.pdf - Published Version Restricted to Registered users only Download (113kB) | Request a copy

Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer is a major health problem in India. The aim of this paper was to find the cervical cancer screening practices among rural Indian women. Method: This cross- sectional study was carried out in 3 villages of Udupi, India among 407 married women in the aged 221- 65 years. Data was collected using interviewer administered questionnaires. Results: The mean age of the women who participated in the study was 43.17 ± 13.43 with the age range from 21- 65 years. It was determined that more than half of the women (68.3 %) were Hindu. 37.1% had completed primary school education. Majority of the participants (40%) had monthly income less than 5000 rupees. 98% were living with their spouse. Most of them (77.3 %) were married within 18-25 years. Majority of the women belonged to joint family (53.6 %). It was found that none of the 407 participants had ever had a Pap test in their lifetime and only 6.1 % were aware of the Pap test as a screening modality for cervical cancer. Lack of awareness was cited by more than half of the women as the reason for not undergoing cervical cancer screening. Conclusion: From this it can be inferred that lack of awareness is a major barrier for not undergoing screening. An organized health education programme focusing on women with the participation of health care workers is sorely needed.

Actions (login required)

View Item