Factors that determine utilization of cervical cancer screening methods among women aged 21-50 years in Meru South, Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya

Abstract

The cervical cancer ranks as the first cause of female cancer and the first most common female cancer in women. It is also the first leading cause of cancer deaths in women aged 15 to 44 years in Kenya. Despite the introduction of cervical cancer screening and control programmes, the burden of cervical cancer remains high in Kenya. This study therefore sought to identify factors that determine utilization of cervical cancer screening methods among women aged 21-50 years in Meru South, Tharaka Nithi, Kenya. A cross-sectional descriptive study composing of 40 women aged between 20 and 50 years was carried out. An interview guide was used to collect data which was transcribed to Microsoft Excel 2017 software. The findings revealed that the respondents’ age significantly influenced uptake of cervical cancer screening. Besides, increasing age was associated with increased likelihood of screening. Only 12.5% of women aged 21-30 years had screened as compared to 50% of women in the age category 51-60. However, utilization of screening services was higher among women aged 31-40 years. Educational status was also significant in the uptake of screening services. However, tertiary education level had no much influence as many would expect. Majority of those who had tested for cervical cancer were of primary and secondary educational status. Knowledge level of respondents with regards to cervical cancer and screening also significantly influenced uptake of screening services. Knowledge and awareness of risk factors, cervical cancer test and availability of the test enhanced screening uptake. The study concluded that uptake of cervical cancer screening methods was influenced by age, educational status and knowledge level of respondents. Poor use of the screening services was majorly attributed to lack of precise information regarding cervical cancer & screening and disregard for screening services. It recommended that health care providers from all cadres should greatly be involved in the promotion of cervical cancer screening to women who seek health care in the health facilities and the community. I tend to believe that a woman devoid of information and impacts of cervical cancer will definitely test for cervical cancer when told of and asked to by the health care provider.