Barriers and Facilitators Factors to Uptake of Cervical Cancer Screening Among Women in Low- and Middle-income Countries: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Cervical cancer is a worldwide health issue. Each year, it kills hundreds of thousands of women worldwide. Despite the availability of screening tests, the incidence of cervical cancer remains high in low and middle-income countries. In this review, we survey the current literature on factors affecting cervical cancer screening uptake among women in low and middle-income countries. It also highlights potential strategies for improving screening uptake and suggests directions for future research. Knowledge about cervical cancer and its screening, socio-demographic factors, personal and behavioural factors, cultural factors and beliefs, and health service factors are considered the main barriers and facilitators to cervical cancer screening uptake among women in low and middle-income countries. Understanding the facilitators and barriers to cervical cancer screening encountered by women in low and middle-income countries can improve screening uptake by overcoming inequalities in resource and information access. Culturally sensitive screening programs, improvement of the health system, and health education interventions to raise awareness of screening and its benefits can be effective strategies to improve screening uptake among women in low and middle-income countries.