Knowledge Regarding Prevention of Cervical Cancer among Reproductive Age Women in Bote Community, Nawalparasi: A Community-based Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Preventable cervical cancer poses a significant threat to the lives of women in their reproductive years in Nepal. Educating women about cervical cancer is crucial in early detection and implementing suitable preventive measures. This study centered on the Bote community and aimed to assess the knowledge of women in terms of preventing cervical cancer. 

Methods: A community, cross-sectional study was conducted among the reproductive age group of the Bote community. All women in the reproductive age group (15–49 years) were included from selected wards with 170 respondents. Face-to-face interviews were conducted using semi-structured questionnaires. The data were analyzed in SPSS version 16 for Windows using descriptive statistics.

Results: Out of  the 170 respondents, only 48.12% heard about cervical cancer, while 90.6% had a limited understanding of preventive measures. A small proportion of respondents, specifically 7.2%, were familiar with the concept of a pap smear examination, and only 12% were aware of the availability of the HPV vaccine, which effectively prevents cervical cancer.

Conclusions: Women of reproductive age in the Bote community demonstrated a lack of adequate knowledge concerning cervical cancer prevention. Most of the respondents were unaware of the HPV vaccine's accessibility and  cervical cancer prevention strategies. Therefore, local and federal governments must prioritize implementing targeted advocacy programs tailored to reach and educate marginalized women in minority communities.