Abstract

Worldwide, cervical cancer strikes almost half a million women every year and is fatal in approximately half of these
cases, particularly those in developing countries where screening programs are not well established with over
493,000 new cases of cervical cancer occurring each year among women, and 274,000 women dying of the disease
annually. This study was designed to determine factors influencing the utilization of cervical screening services
among women over 20 years attending KIUTH, Ishaka Bushenyi, Western Uganda. A descriptive cross-sectional
study among 70 women 20 years or more attending KIUTH in Bushenyi district was sampled randomly and using
a self-administered questionnaire, data was collected, coded, entered, and analyzed using IBM SPSS version 20;
presented in frequency and percentage charts and tables and P-Values where necessary. According to the study
findings, 70% had ever screened for cervical cancer. Using Pap smear (51.4%), VIA (37.1%) and Histology (11.4%).
The majority 56(80.0%) had ever heard about cervical cancer. Mostly 39(55.7%) acquired their information from
Health workers and to a considerable extent 20(28.6%) from media 55(78.6%) for expensiveness as the main
hindrance. 52.4% not screened were not aware of the availability of the services. Nonetheless, 42(85.7%) among the
screened agreed that the services were available but this was not statistically significant. A significant effect was
noted with health workers’ sensitization about STIs 44(89.8%); 33(67.3%) further agreed that services cover cancer
(cervical) prevention offering professional advice 42(85.7%). Once counseled, 33(82.5%) agreed that cervical cancer
could be prevented. The utilization level stands at a good position with up to 70% screening mostly using pap smear.
On an individual level; Health workers and media increases awareness and thus utilization. Statistically, health
facilities/workers could further empower the utilization of cervical cancer screening through sensitization,
counseling, and guidance concerning utilization. However, affordability, safety, and accessibility of such services and
misinformation remain a hindrance to the utilization of cervical cancer screening services.
Keywords: Cervical cancer, Women, Cervical screening, Pap smear