Studying the awareness of early detection of cervical cancer by conducting a cervical smear in Damascus and its countryside

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: The Pap smear is a reliable, inexpensive, and effective screening test for cervical cancer; Cervical cancer is the most common type of cancer among women worldwide. This study aims to assess knowledge and awareness about early detection of cervical cancer among a sample of women in Syria and its association with social and demographic characteristics.Materials and Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted between January and March 2023 using the appropriate sampling pattern among a sample of women from the governorates of Damascus and Damascus countryside. The inclusion criteria included Syrian women 18 years and over, who were able to read and understand the questionnaire and fill it out completely. A self-administered and filled-out questionnaire in Arabic was used that included questions about demographic information, questions about awareness about early detection of cervical cancer using a Pap smear, and questions about behavioral intention. To do a cervical smear in the future. The chi-square test was used to study the relationship between the qualitative variables of the study and the degree of awareness about early detection of cervical cancer.Results Out of 1000 women who participated in the study, most of them were 40 years old and over, 39.8%, and 31–39 years old, 26.8%. 9.8% of the sample reported having sexually transmitted diseases before, of whom 71.1% reported having gonorrhea, 16.5% with chlamydia, and 6.2% with genital herpes. 33% knew that the Pap smear is the most useful way to detect cervical cancer. And 40.4% answered that women should undergo a cervical examination at least every three years. The degree of awareness was weak at 75.8%, and 53.2% showed a weak behavioral intention to conduct a Pap smear in the future.Conclusion The results of this study indicate that women's awareness and behavior towards Pap smear is insufficient and needs to be strengthened. Given the main reason participants cited for not having the test, all healthcare providers should educate and encourage women to have regular Pap smears. This is done through awareness campaigns, scientific seminars, and social media.