Uptake of Cervical Cancer Screening Services Among Women Aged 25-49 Years: A Cross-sectional Study at Kidera HC IV

Abstract

Introduction: Cervical cancer has been noted as a major public health concern especially in developing countries. This indicates that there is need for more efforts in the developing countries like Uganda to prevent cervical cancer among women. Therefore, there is need to establish more evidence on the uptake of cervical screening uptake to facilitate the development of informed cervical prevention intervention with the country. Objective of the study: This study aimed at determining uptake of cervical cancer screening services among women aged 25-49 years; across sectional study at Kidera HC IV. Methodology: This study was conducted at a facility and used both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Quantitative data was collected through interviewer-administered questionnaires, while qualitative data was gathered through key informant interviews. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics at the univariate analysis stage. The participants selfreported their uptake of cervical cancer screening services. Factors influencing the uptake of cervical cancer screening services among women aged 25-49 years were determined using binary logistic regression at the bi variate analysis stage. A multiple logistic regression model was then used to account for any confounding factors at the multivariate analysis stage. The qualitative data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: The uptake of cervical cancer screening services among women aged 25-49 years was 60%, with 55% having been screened 2-3 years ago from the time of the study. Factors positively associated with uptake included being a Seventh-day Adventist (SDA), having a mother as the decision-maker at home, receiving quality services at the health facility, and having high knowledge about cervical cancer. However, having a business occupation was negatively associated with uptake (P<0.005). Challenges limiting access to screening services included inadequate skilled health workforce, shortages of medical supplies, lack of awareness, unwillingness to be screened, and poor community attitudes. Conclusion: Though the uptake of cervical cancer among women aged 25-49 years was high, more interventions including sensitization and lobbying for medical supplies are needed to address most of the challenges that limit the uptake of cervical cancer screening services among women.