Abstract

The study conducted in April 2017 at Wakiso Health Centre IV Reproductive Health Clinic aimed to assess the factors
influencing cervical cancer screening among women of reproductive age (18-49) in Wakiso District. The research
employed a descriptive cross-sectional design, focusing on a sample of 60 women attending the reproductive health clinic
through random sampling. Data collection involved both qualitative and quantitative methods, including questionnaires
and semi-structured interviews. The study uncovered several key findings. Firstly, a substantial majority of the women
surveyed (88%) had never undergone cervical cancer screening. Additionally, a significant portion (80%) lacked
knowledge of any indicators suggestive of cervical cancer development, with 20% believing they could only find out
through hospital testing. A significant proportion (34%) of respondents had never been screened due to perceiving
themselves as too young, while 18% cited fear of the screening procedure, and 45% feared receiving a cervical cancer
diagnosis. The identified factors contributing to the low cervical cancer screening rates included a lack of knowledge
about cervical cancer, ignorance about the importance of regular screening, and misconceptions and negative attitudes
associated with the screening process, such as the fear of pain, shame, and the fear of diagnosis. The study concluded that
the lack of knowledge and negative attitudes towards cervical cancer screening were significant barriers. It recommended
comprehensive health education to raise awareness and sensitize women about the importance of cervical cancer
screening. Furthermore, the study called for government intervention to ensure affordable, accessible, and equitably
distributed healthcare services for all, along with strategies to combat poverty and improve the socio-economic status of
individuals. In sum, this study revealed that low cervical cancer screening rates among women of reproductive age in
Wakiso District were primarily due to a lack of awareness and negative perceptions surrounding the screening process.
The research emphasized the need for education, improved access to healthcare services, and poverty alleviation
measures to address these barriers and promote cervical cancer screening