Perceptions and practices of a pakistani population regarding cervical cancer screening.

ABSTRACT

Cervical cancer is among the three leading causes of cancers among females worldwide. It is also among the three most common causes of cancer deaths among females, about 80% of which occur in less developed countries. The present cross-sectional knowledge, attitude and practice survey was carried out to determine the perceptions and practices of a Pakistani female population regarding cervical cancer screening. Through convenient sampling, 192 subjects were recruited and administered a pre-tested and structured questionnaire. About 5% of subjects knew that screening was available for cervical cancer. Only 2.6% of the sample had ever received a Pap test. The most common reason cited for not having received a Pap test was the lack of information. In conclusion, the Pakistani population studied here demonstrated a very low coverage of the Pap test and a poor knowledge regarding its utility.