CERVICAL CANCER SCREENING UTILIZATION AND ITS PREDICTORS AMONG WOMEN (15 – 49 YRS) INSHEWAROBIT TOWN, ETHIOPIA, 2023

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.