Publications

The investigation aimed to evaluate the level of awareness and understanding concerningcervical cancer among female attendees of the gynecology clinic at St. Mary’s Hospital in theDiocese of Kasese (DOK), Uganda. Utilizing a cross-sectional approach, data was collectedfrom a sample of 100 women through structured questionnaires. Although all participantswere familiar with cervical cancer, the study revealed significant gaps in their awareness.Only 84% recognized the existence of cervical cancer screening, and merely 16% were awareof the recommended screening interval of three years for non-immunosuppressed women.Moreover, responses varied regarding the age for initial screening, with 40% suggestingscreening before 25 years, 20% proposing screening between 25 to 64 years, and 4%indicating symptom-based screening. While 59% acknowledged the preventability of cervicalcancer and could identify preventive measures, knowledge about risk factors remainedinsufficient. For instance, 69% were uncertain about or denied smoking as a risk factor,while less than three-quarters recognized viral causes (59%) and the link between sexuallytransmitted infections (71%) and weakened immune systems (45%) as potential risks. Thestudy highlights a substantial lack of knowledge regarding cervical cancer among women,despite existing communication strategies in place.Keywords: Cervical cancer, vaginal bleeding, Gynecology, Sexual partners, Coital bleeding.