Knowledge, practices, and perceptions of the healthcare providers on cervical cancer screening among HIV-positive women at Lira Regional Referral Hospital, Lira City.

Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer remains a global burden and is by far one of the major causes of premature death among women of reproductive age. We explored the knowledge, practices, and perceptions of healthcare providers on cervical cancer screening among HIV-positive women aged 18-49 years in Lira City. Methods: In June 2023, a qualitative cross-sectional study was conducted among healthcare providers at Lira Regional Referral Hospital (LRRH), Lira City, Northern Uganda. Key informant interviews (KII’s) were used to collect data among purposively selected healthcare providers. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and coded using the NVivo (QSR International) software. Thematic content analysis was used in data analysis. Results: The study found that participants had good knowledge about cervical cancer and screening. They provided health education, and vaccination for eligible girls and screened HIV-positive women for cervical cancer. Long waiting hours, long distances to healthcare facilities, and negative attitudes of some health providers were reported as barriers to CCS utilization. However, increased awareness, the presence of signs/symptoms, and the desire to maintain optimal health facilitated CCS utilisation among HIV-positive women. Conclusion: Healthcare providers knew about cervical cancer screening by HPV testing and Visual Inspection with Acetic acid and provided routine health education on screening, and cervical cancer screening to HIV-positive women. They perceived increased demand for CCS services by HIV-positive women, which is attributed to their increased awareness, the presence of signs and symptoms, and their desire to maintain optimal health. Despite several hindering factors, such as long waiting hours, long distances to healthcare facilities, and negative attitudes of some health providers, the practice of cervical cancer screening can be improved by reducing waiting times, increasing access to healthcare facilities, and ensuring that patients feel comfortable throughout the screening process.