Publications

The study conducted in April 2017 at Wakiso Health Centre IV Reproductive Health Clinic aimed to assess the factorsinfluencing cervical cancer screening among women of reproductive age (18-49) in Wakiso District. The researchemployed a descriptive cross-sectional design, focusing on a sample of 60 women attending the reproductive health clinicthrough random sampling. Data collection involved both qualitative and quantitative methods, including questionnairesand semi-structured interviews. The study uncovered several key findings. Firstly, a substantial majority of the womensurveyed (88%) had never undergone cervical cancer screening. Additionally, a significant portion (80%) lackedknowledge of any indicators suggestive of cervical cancer development, with 20% believing they could only find outthrough hospital testing. A significant proportion (34%) of respondents had never been screened due to perceivingthemselves as too young, while 18% cited fear of the screening procedure, and 45% feared receiving a cervical cancerdiagnosis. The identified factors contributing to the low cervical cancer screening rates included a lack of knowledgeabout cervical cancer, ignorance about the importance of regular screening, and misconceptions and negative attitudesassociated with the screening process, such as the fear of pain, shame, and the fear of diagnosis. The study concluded thatthe lack of knowledge and negative attitudes towards cervical cancer screening were significant barriers. It recommendedcomprehensive health education to raise awareness and sensitize women about the importance of cervical cancerscreening. Furthermore, the study called for government intervention to ensure affordable, accessible, and equitablydistributed healthcare services for all, along with strategies to combat poverty and improve the socio-economic status ofindividuals. In sum, this study revealed that low cervical cancer screening rates among women of reproductive age inWakiso District were primarily due to a lack of awareness and negative perceptions surrounding the screening process.The research emphasized the need for education, improved access to healthcare services, and poverty alleviationmeasures to address these barriers and promote cervical cancer screening