Factors Influencing Uptake of Cervical Cancer Screening and Testing among Makerere University Students at School of Statistics and Planning

Abstract

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women. It is the leading cause of deaths among women worldwide. It is estimated that 493000 new cases and 274000 deaths occur every year due to this preventable disease (Ferlay et al, 2002). Though it has high mortality there is a potential of preventing it when detection is done early. This study sought to establish the factors influencing the uptake of cervical cancer screening in Makerere University Students County. The objectives of study were: To find out the relationship between social cultural factors and uptake of cervical cancer screening, To find out the relationship between economic factors and uptake of cervical cancer screening, To find out the measures to help increase the uptake of cervical cancer screening. The study adopted A mixed approach survey design will be conducted to facilitate a broad understanding of knowledge and women‘s perception, social cultural and economic factors that hinder the uptake of cervical cancer screening among women. (Grimes, 2002). The sample of the study was 346 female respondents got from the kranjene and Morgan table 1970 and data was analyzed using SPSS. Basing on the objectives of the study, it was found significance relationship show significance between Social economic status and uptake of cancer screening (p-value <0.05). Results from the study show that majority of the respondents agreed that Increase awareness about cancer screening (50.7%), that providing free cancer screening services can increase uptake of cancer screening involving parents and guardians in encouraging their children in taking screening can improve that uptake of cancer screening (51.%). Results also showed that social factors had no significant relationship with uptake of cervical cancer screening uptake and testing were by p-value<0.05 The study recommended that, health institutions should establish clear guidelines on screening for cervical cancer, such as making it one of the routines for women of child bearing age and as such providing the necessary equipment for the procedure to all the different units and also training workers on the skills. More information, education and communication materials like picto-pamphlets should be made available and distributed at strategic centers were women are and can be found.