Knowledge of cervical cancer and assessment of risk factors among pregnant and postpartum women in sub-Saharan Africa

Rukiyat A. Abdus-salam; Rasheedat O. Balogun; Abbas A. Abdus-salam

doi:10.51496/jogm.v6.363

Authors

Rukiyat A. Abdus-salam Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan/University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
Rasheedat O. Balogun Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan/University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
Abbas A. Abdus-salam Department of Radiation Oncology, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan/University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51496/jogm.v6.363

Keywords:

Health knowledge, Maternal health services, Postpartum period, Pregnancy, Risk factors, Uterine cervical neoplasm

Abstract

Background: Most cases of cervical cancer in Nigeria present in advanced stages due to poor awareness of the disease and available screening modalities. The pre- and post-natal periods may be opportunities to see women of childbearing age, raise awareness, and identify high-risk factors.

Objective: This study aimed to assess awareness of cervical cancer, associated factors, and risk factor assessment in pregnant and postpartum women.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the University College Hospital, Ibadan; 220 consenting women were interviewed. The data obtained included sociodemographic and obstetric characteristics, awareness of cervical cancer, and its risk factors. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25; level of significance P < 0.05.

Result: Mean age was 31.15 ± 5.39 years. Forty-nine (22.3%) women had never heard of cervical cancer. Age (P < 0.0001), occupation (P = 0.01), education level (P < 0.000), and religion (P = 0.01), were associated with awareness. Younger age and lower educational level were independent predictors of awareness. Multiple sexual partners and poor condom use were the commonest identifiable risk factors.

Conclusion: More than one in five women were not aware of cervical cancer. Age and education level were independently associated with the level of awareness. To reduce the burden, interventions to prevent cervical cancer should include awareness and screening at maternal health clinics.

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