Factors Influencing Knowledge and Practice Regarding Cervical Cancer and Pap smear Testing among Omani Women

Document Type : Research Articles

Authors

Department of Allied Health Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Sultanate of Oman.

Abstract

Background: Knowledge of cervical cancer and performance of Pap smear testing are influenced by several
sociodemographic factors. This study aimed to describe the effect of relevant variables on knowledge and compliance
with guidelines in Oman. Methods: In this cross-sectional survey, participants were divided into three groups: patients
who attended Outpatient Gynecology Department, female medical staff and university graduate students. Results: There
were 204 outpatients, 133 staff, and 157 students. Adequate knowledge among was seen in 38.7%, 35.3%, and 7.6%,
respectively. Knowledge of cervical cancer and Pap smear was significantly lower among outpatients with secondary
education, while those with high level of income were more likely to have adequate cancer knowledge. Uptake of Pap
smear was significantly greater among outpatients aged ≥ 30 years, with high income and a positive history of cancer.
Conclusion: Culturally tailored interventions that focus on improving cancer risk knowledge are needed to maximize
screening uptake for cervical cancer.

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Main Subjects

Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention
Volume 19, Issue 12
December 2018
Pages 3367-3374

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History

  • Receive Date: 21 September 2017
  • Revise Date: 25 February 2018
  • Accept Date: 08 April 2018

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