IJAR - Indian Journal of Applied Research

Dr. Umadevi M; Dr. R C Prameela

Volume : IX, Issue : X, October - 2019

Awareness and knowledge of cervical cancer and its prevention in a tertiary health institute in Mysore, Karnataka, India

Dr. Umadevi M, Dr. R C Prameela

Abstract :

BACKGROUND: Carcinoma of the cervix is the most common genital cancer encountered in clinical practice in India (80%) & it accounts for 15% of all cancers in females. It is the second most common cancer in women worldwide. Screening programs & vaccines are effective at reducing the incidence of cervical cancer. Awareness regarding cervical cancer is quite low amongst Indian women. Hence it is necessary to make general public aware of cervical cancer for its prevention. OBJECTIVES: 1) To determine the information of the knowledge on risk factors of cervical cancer as well as awareness of the related symptoms 2) To explore the attitudes among general population in terms of cervical cancer screening programs such as Pap smear. 3) To find out the behaviour of respondents regarding prevention of cervical carcinoma. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A structured self administered questionnaire based survey was done on 100 patients visiting gynaecology OPD at Cheluvamba Hospital, Mysore , Karnataka, containing demographics, knowledge about cervical cancer, its risk factors, screening technique (PAP smear) & attitude towards cervical cancer vaccines.