Cervical Cancer Screening and Associated Factors Among Women of Reproductive Age in Sidama Regional State of Ethiopia: A Cross‐Sectional Survey

TL;DR

This study found low cervical cancer screening rates among women in Ethiopia, with knowledge and education being key factors influencing screening behavior.

Contribution

The study provides new insights into cervical cancer screening practices and associated factors in the Sidama region of Ethiopia.

Findings

Only 15% of women in the study had been screened for cervical cancer.

Better education and knowledge were positively associated with cervical cancer screening.

Ethnicity and marital status also influenced screening behavior.

Abstract

Africa and sub‐Saharan Africa reported higher cervical cancer cases globally. Cervical cancer is the second most leading cause of cancer in Ethiopia. Yet, the evidence was low for cervical cancer screening practices in Ethiopia.

In this study, we assessed the cervical cancer screening and associated factors among reproductive‐age women in Sidama Region, Bensa, Ethiopia.

A facility‐based cross‐sectional study design was conducted from January 1, 2023 to March 30, 2023 in Bensa district. Data were collected using a pre‐tested and structured questionnaire. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify the associated factors with knowledge, attitude, and practice of cervical cancer screening.

One hundred forty‐seven 147 (36.7%) had good knowledge, 218 (54.4%) had a favorable attitude towards cervical cancer screening and only 60 (15%) respondents were screened for cervical cancer. Women having better educational status was 1.6 (AOR: 95% CI: 1.0, 2.5) times more likely to have knowledge of cervical cancer screening. Women being the protestant religion followers (AOR: 1.9; 95% CI; 1.0–3.4), Sidama ethnic group (AOR: 4.5; 95% CI: 2.1–9.7), having no formal education (AOR: 1.7; 95% CI: 1.1–2.7), and having good knowledge of cervical cancer (AOR: 2.2; 95% CI: 1.4–3.4) were associated with a positive attitude towards screening for cervical cancer. The odds of cervical cancer screening were low among Amhara's ethnic categories (AOR: 0.2; 95% CI: 0.1–0.5), while higher in women with single marital statuses (AOR: 2.4; 95% CI: 1.2–4.8), and those who have information about cancer screening (AOR: 2.0; 95% CI: 1.1–3.8).

The results of this study showed that cervical cancer screening practice was low. The respondents' knowledge and education status were positively associated with screening for cervical cancer.