Uptake of Cervical Cancer Screening Among Female Students at International Health Sciences University.

Abstract

Introduction: Cervical cancer is the most common female cancer in sub Saharan Africa and accounts for the highest female cancer related mortality. In East Africa, estimated age standardized incidence rates for cervical cancer are 42.7 and mortality estimated at 34.6 per 100,000 women-years. Cervical cancer is the commonest female cancer in Uganda with an estimated age standardized incidence rate of 40 per 100,000. Objectives: The study established the uptake of cervical cancer screening among female students at International Health Sciences University(IHSU). It was guided by four specific objectives which were to; determine the proportion of female students, determine the sociodemographic factors that affect the cervical cancer screening, to assess knowledge, and attitude about cervical cancer screening among female students at IHSU using appropriate and relevant interventions. Methodology: The study used a cross sectional descriptive design where both qualitative and quantitative approaches were used. Data was collected from female students at IHSU. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics of frequency and percentages and presented in frequency tables. Chi-square statistical test was also used in the analysis. Results: The study showed that only 14.9% of the sampled respondents had ever had a Pap test within the last 3 years and socio-demographic factors, knowledge and attitude were associated with low uptake of cervical cancer screening among female students at IHSU. Conclusion: The study findings revealed that majority of the participants had knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors but could have had a negative attitude about cervical cancer screening and the Pap smear test, treatment and prevention strategies. Personal sociodemographic barriers could have hindered the use of Pap smear services hence a low uptake of cervical cancer screening among female students at IHSU. Recommendation: From the findings therefore, among others that; educational screening programs for students in the reproductive age group should be organized to describe risk factors for cervical cancer in order for to them better understand risks for cervical cancer. Health programs the by Ministry of Health (MoH) should be organized to focus on the minority individuals in understanding the high-risk behaviors. Routine health sensitization programmes be organized to create awareness about cervical and it is useful to be able to identify incorrect beliefs about high-risk behaviors.