Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) Towards Cervical Cancer and Its Screening Among Women Attending a Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

Cervical cancer remains one of the most prevalent and preventable malignancies affecting women worldwide. Despite advancements in early detection and treatment, morbidity and mortality remain high, particularly in low-resource settings. Knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) regarding cervical cancer and its screening play a pivotal role in the timely diagnosis and prevention of this disease. This review explores the current state of KAP towards cervical cancer and its screening among women attending tertiary care hospitals. The study evaluates factors influencing awareness, cultural perceptions, accessibility, and healthcare-seeking behaviors that affect screening participation. Additionally, barriers such as socio-economic factors, myths, stigma, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure are examined. Emphasis is placed on the role of education, community engagement, and policy-level interventions in improving screening uptake. Findings suggest that a multidisciplinary approach involving healthcare providers, government bodies, and non-governmental organizations is crucial in addressing gaps in cervical cancer screening. Strengthening educational initiatives, promoting self-sampling techniques, and implementing targeted awareness campaigns are key strategies to enhance screening rates. The review underscores the need for robust healthcare policies, enhanced outreach programs, and improved healthcare provider-patient communication to ensure early detection and treatment of cervical cancer. By addressing the disparities in knowledge, attitude, and practices, significant strides can be made towards reducing the burden of cervical cancer and improving women's health outcomes.