Knowledge And Practice Of Cervical Cancer Screening Among Women In Ibadan, Oyo State

Publication Details

Publication Date

10/11/2026

Volume / Issue

Vol 1, Issue 6 (2026)

Article No.

077

Journal

British Journal of Contemporary Research

DOI

https://doi.org/10.67693/BJCR-UYQBH578

Received

23 Oct 2026

Views

19

Downloads

9

Abstract

Cervical cancer is a major public health concern, particularly in developing countries where awareness and utilization of preventive services are still limited. This study assessed the knowledge, awareness, and preventive practices related to cervical cancer, Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, and Pap smear screening among respondents. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and data were collected from 537 respondents using a structured questionnaire. The findings revealed that a large proportion of respondents were aware of cervical cancer and understood that Pap smear tests can detect the disease at an early stage. Similarly, a considerable number were aware of the HPV vaccine as a preventive measure. However, the uptake of both HPV vaccination and Pap smear screening was relatively low. Among respondents with daughters, only a small percentage reported that their daughters had received the HPV vaccine. Major barriers to vaccination and screening included concerns about side effects, cost, fear of the screening procedure, lack of adequate information, and cultural or religious beliefs. Despite these challenges, many respondents expressed willingness to recommend HPV vaccination and Pap smear screening to others. The study concludes that although awareness of cervical cancer prevention exists, there remains a significant gap between knowledge and the actual utilization of preventive services. The study therefore recommends intensified public health education, subsidized vaccination and screening programs, and the integration of cervical cancer screening into routine healthcare services to improve prevention and early detection.

License

This article is published under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License . Free to read, share, and adapt with attribution.