Qualitative study reveals barriers and facilitators impacting cervical cancer screening in Zambian women, highlighting the role of community engagement and healthcare access.
Key Points
This study aims to explore the experiences of Zambian women regarding cervical cancer screening and treatment.
Conducted eight focus group discussions and 18 in-depth interviews with women and healthcare workers.
Participants included women living with and without HIV who accessed cervical cancer screening from 2016 to 2020.
Thematic analysis was used to analyze transcripts from focus group discussions and interviews.
Women recognized the need for screening but faced delays due to fear and logistical barriers.
Social networks aided in promoting screening, while financial barriers hindered timely access to treatment.
Five stages of care-seeking were identified, highlighting various challenges in accessing services.