Cervical Cancer Screening: Awareness and Barriers Among University Students in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. A Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer (CC) remains a global public health concern in 2020 and beyond. It is the 4^th most frequent cancer in women and stands in the 8^th place in terms of most commonly prevalent cancer globally. CC starts in the cervix and is mainly caused by high-risk strains of Human-Papilloma Virus (HPV), which are sexually transmitted. In Tanzania, there is insufficient knowledge and concerns about attitudes and perceived convenience among students regarding CCS despite the increasing incidence of the disease. Aim: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and perceived convenience of cervical cancer screening among university female students in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Methods: Data was collected using a structured questionnaire from 183 respondents who were randomly selected. The questionnaire was designed to evaluate the participants' knowledge of cervical cancer, their attitudes toward screening, and their perceptions of the convenience of undergoing cervical cancer screening. Information related to demographics and past screening experiences was also included in the questionnaire. Data analysis included both descriptive and inferential statistical methods to examine the responses and identify factors associated with knowledge, attitudes, and perceived convenience. Results: Among the 183 participants, 94% were aware of cervical cancer, and 56.9% knew about its risk factors. Knowledge about screening was limited to 36.5%, but a noteworthy 88.5% had a positive attitude towards it. There is a very weak positive correlation between the perceived convenience of the test in terms of female university students’ confidence in the physician’s ability to perform a Pap smear correctly and the rate of cervical cancer screening (r(155) = 0.352; P<0.01). Students’ perception of cervical cancer screening was influenced by personal experiences with the disease (P = 000), and their level of awareness correlated with participation in the screening program (P ≤ 0.01). Conclusion: Despite awareness and positive attitudes, a knowledge gap hampers cervical cancer screening, hindering Pap smear uptake. Healthcare practitioners should prioritize awareness and education, involving nurses who are in the front line in performing cervical cancer screening in awareness campaigns and specialized programs. Authorities should develop strategies to enhance knowledge and prevent cervical cancer in young females.