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DOI: DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.21088/ijog.2321.1636.6618.6

Abstract

  Introduction: Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in Indian women. India bears about one-fifth of the world’s burden of cervical cancer. HPV infection has proven to be the culprit in causing 70% of the cases. Through robust screening programs, developed countries have proven that cervical cancer is preventable with the help of various primary and secondary preventive strategies available today. Aim: Assessment of awareness regarding cervical cancer, its prevention and early detection methods among general female population. Methodology: This prospective observational study was conducted through convenience sampling in 506 women (Age: 15- 65years) who attended ObstetricsGynaecology OPD at Bharati Vidyapeeth Hospital, a tertiary care center in Pune, India. The duration of the study was from September 2016-february 2017. A pre-validated  closed–ended self-administered questionnaire was used in English and Marathi for data collection. Result: Out of 506 women, 52.6% were aware of cervical cancer. Majority of the women did not know the cause of cervical cancer and had not heard of HPV. 61.7% were not aware of the risk factors. 76.1% did not know about the symptoms of cervical cancer. Only 30.2% women were aware of various screening tests available. Only 5% had opted for one of the screening tests in their lifetime and 2.4% had taken the HPV vaccine. Conclusion: Despite being   the second most common cancer, a killing disease in Indian women, majority are not aware of the risk factors and preventive measures of cervical cancer. Hence, nationwide public awareness campaigns are still the need of the hour. Clinical significance: Our study is an eye opener about apathy and lack of awareness about this disease still prevalent around. It highlights the need of continuous efforts still needed to make the women aware and come forward for vaccination and screening tests to reduce the burden. 

Keywords: Cervical Cancer; Cervarix; Pap Smear; HPV.  

Corresponding Author : Dabhadkar Suchita, Associate Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University Medical College, Pune, Pune, Maharashtra 411043, India.