Knowledge and Screening Practices of Cervical Cancer among Women Aged 30–60 Years in Godawari Municipality, Kailali, Nepal: A Descriptive Cross Sectional Study.

Introduction: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common malignancy among women globally, with a disproportionately high burden in developing countries like Nepal. In Nepal, the incidence rate is twice as high as in developed nations. Despite the 2010 National Guidelines prioritizing Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid screening, coverage remains low. The main aim was to assess the knowledge and screening practice related to cervical cancer among women aged 30–60 years in Godawari Municipality, Kailali, Nepal. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among women aged 30–60 years in five randomly selected wards of Godawari Municipality, Kailali. Systematic random sampling was used to select participants. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire through face-to-face interviews, entered using EpiData 3.1, and analyzed using SPSS 16. Frequencies and percentages were calculated. Results: Out of 210 women, 187 (89%) had heard of cervical cancer, and 149 (71%) reported family and friends as their primary source of information. 154 (72.4%) had never undergone cervical cancer screening. Respondents had fewer than six pregnancies, while some reported three miscarriages. Sterile cloths were used during menstruation. Conclusion: Cervical cancer screening practice in Godawari Municipality is low despite high awareness. Respondents showed limited knowledge about cervical cancer symptoms, risk factors, and prevention. Increasing awareness and access to screening, especially among less educated and low-income women, is crucial.