Abstract:
Introduction: Cervical cancer is the most fatal malignancy of the cervix, which is the lower opening of
the uterus, and the third most frequently detected cancer type (after breast cancer and colorectal cancer)
among women globally. its causative agent is a sexually transmitted virus called Human Papilloma
Virus (HPV) which is responsible for more than 99% of cervical cancer cases and its precursors
Cervical cancer is treatable and has a long precancerous period, which allows for screening and the
treatment of any premalignant lesions identified, preventing the illness from progressing to the invasive
stage.
Objective: The study was carried out to assess cervical cancer screening utilization and associated
factors among women of reproductive age in Shewarobit town, North central Ethiopia.
Methods: Community based Cross sectional study was conducted among 540 women of reproductive
age in Shewarobit town, North central Ethiopia from March 01-March 30, 2023. The study participants
were selected using systematic sampling method. Data was collected using interviewer-administered
questionnaire. Descriptive analysis was done and logistic regression was used to assess the association
between the independent variables and dependent variable.
Result and Conclusion From 540 women invited to participate, all women were participated in the
study with response rate of 100%. The magnitude of cervical cancer screening utilization in Shewarobit
town among women 15-49 year was 83(15.4%). Those who had poor knowledge about cervical cancer
and screening service are 76% less likely to utilize cervical cancer screening [AOR: 0.24, 95% CI: (0.13-
0.46)]. The odd of cervical cancer screening utilization is 2.5 times more likely among women who had
positive attitude than those who had negative attitude about cervical cancer screening utilization
[AOR:2.51 ,95%CI: (1.41-4.46)]. Age group of 15-24 years are 70% less likely to Utilize cervical cancer
screening when compared to those age group who are greater than 35years the ,[AOR: 0.29, (95%CI:
(0.12-0.71)], 30% less likely to utilize cervical cancer screening those who are single[AOR: 0.60, 95%
CI: (0.33-0.10)
Conclusion: Generally cervical cancer screening utilization is low in Shewarobit town, North Shewa
zone. Knowledge, attitude about cervical cancer screening, age and marital were some of the associated
factors identified.
