Knowledge and Attitude Towards Cervical Cancer Screening Among Female Students in Allied Health Colleges in Shinyanga Region

ABSTRACT Background: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cause of death among women of reproductive age (15-49 years). In Tanzania, cervical cancer is the first cause of mortality and morbidity among females with cancers. The disease impact is highly associated with a lack of adequate knowledge and a negative attitude toward cervical cancer screening among healthcare workers (HCWs). This study aimed to assess knowledge and attitude toward cervical cancer screening among female students as future HCWs from allied health colleges in the Shinyanga region. Method: Descriptive cross-sectional study data was collected from 420 students in allied health colleges using a self-administered questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22, Likert, and brooms cut-off points. The association between cervical cancer screening and the independent variables on knowledge, attitude, and other related factors was established by using logistic regression, and the Odds Ratio (OR) of greater than one, 95% confidence interval, and a P-value of <.05 was statistically significant. Results: Two-thirds of the respondents 276 (65.7%) had low knowledge, while only 34 (8.1%) had very good knowledge of cervical cancer and screening. Most of the respondents 298 (70.1%) had a favorable attitude toward cervical cancer screening. Only 52 (12.1%) had ever screened for cervical cancer. Logistic regression showed odds at 2.37 (95% CI, 1.30-4.31, p=.005) of taking the cervical screening test to students with the correct knowledge and positive attitude to cervical screening at 1.42 (95% CI, 0.32-6.29, p=.647) Conclusion: The study showed there is low knowledge of cervical cancer screening among female students in health and allied colleges, despite a favorable attitude toward the practice of screening. A well-integrated approach to providing comprehensive and practical aspects of cervical cancer screening during formal training in the curriculum for female students should be adopted to increase their knowledge and positive attitude toward screening.