A cross-sectional survey on Knowledge attitude practice about screening and vaccination for cervical cancer among female health care providers in Puducherry

• Lalithambigai Chellamuthu,*  
• Jyothi Vasudevan,  
• Vinodhini Bala

Abstract

Background: India is accountable for one-fourth of the global cervical cancer burden. Cervical cancer prevention and control are dependent on public awareness, screening protocols, and preventive measures. Even in the most educated women belonging to health-care sectors, there is less awareness about the screening options for cancer cervix and lack of knowledge about HPV vaccine. Objective: To assess the knowledge attitude practice about screening and vaccination for cervical cancer among female health care providers employed in tertiary care hospitals of Puducherry. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted for three months among 238 female healthcare providers in selected medical colleges of Puducherry. A multi-stage sampling technique was followed. A self-administered questionnaire incorporated into google forms was used for data collection and data analysis was done using SPSS version 16. Ethical clearance and written informed consent were obtained. Results: Among 238 participants, 204 (85.7%) answered 15-45 years and 103 (43.3%) as the age group recommended for receiving HPV vaccination and to screen for cervical cancer respectively. Nearly half of the respondents, 110 (46.2%) felt HPV vaccine was expensive. Majority, 197 (82.8%) and 198 (83.2%) had never ever undergone PAP smear screening and vaccinated against HPV respectively. Conclusion: The healthcare providers were aware of screening and vaccination for cervical cancer but the same has not been reflected in their practice.

Keywords

Screening, Vaccination, Cervical cancer, female healthcare providers, Puducherry