Abstract: Cancer is now recognized globally as one of the leading non-communicable diseases. Each year about half a million women develop invasive cancer of the uterine cervix, with more than 80% occurring in low-income countries. This study assessed Knowledge, Attitudes and Socio- cultural Practices that influence the control of cervical cancer among women in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya. Data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire, interview schedules with key informants and focus group discussions. SPSS statistical software was used to generate statistical parameters like mean, standard deviation, etc. The chi square test was used as a test of significance and a Level of significance below 0.05 was considered to determine the association. Multiple logistic regression analysis with odds ratio at 95% confidence interval was utilized. Preventive measures identified; Pap smear 62% (n=225), vaccination 16.5% (n=60), drugs 8% (n=29) and HPV testing 3.9% (n=14). 35.5% (n=142) of the participants had ever been screened. The predictors of cervical cancer control interventions reception were; education, marital status, employment status, ethnicity, having heard of cervical cancer, knowing someone with cervical cancer, knowing cervical cancer preventive measures, having someone recommend testing, age at first sexual activity and trust for conventional methods of cervical cancer control. Barriers to reception were; gender of heath care provider, traditional herbal medicine, perception of not being at risk, pain associated with screening and the private nature of cervical cancer. There is need to develop clear and simple educational messages about cervical cancer and the screening test that can easily be understood by women in order to enhance reception to cervical cancer control interventions.
Keywords: Cervical cancer, knowledge, attitude, socio-cultural practices.
Title: Knowledge, Attitudes and Socio-Cultural Practices that Influence the Control of Cervical Cancer among Women in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya
Author: Georgine Jebet Kemboi, John F. Obiri, Charles C. Mutai
International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research
ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)
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