Objective:
This study aimed to assess the knowledge and awareness of cervical cancer (CC) screening among married women in Al-Qunfudhah, Saudi Arabia.
Methods:
This study was a web-based descriptive cross-sectional study. Data were collected via an online questionnaire from January 2023 to January 2024, targeting all married women in Al-Qunfudhah, with no exclusion criteria. The structured questionnaire, created in Arabic using Google Forms, included closed-ended questions on sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, awareness, and practices related to cervical cancer and its screening. Knowledge level and practice were assessed and compared based on participants’ characteristics.
Results:
The study analyzed responses from 389 participants, with a mean age of 34.8 years ± 9.4 years. Most participants were Saudi (99.0%), married (89.5%), and highly educated (77.6%). Only 13.4% demonstrated good knowledge of cervical cancer, and 23.4% had undergone a Pap smear. A significant difference was found between age and knowledge level, with younger women (< 35 years) exhibited higher knowledge (19.4%) compared to those ≥ 35 years (6.6%). While educational attainment did not significantly impact knowledge, university graduates showed slightly better knowledge levels. Differences in Pap smear practice based on occupation were noted, but not statistically significant.
Conclusion:
The low levels of knowledge and screening practices related to cervical cancer among women in Al-Qunfudhah underscore the urgent need for comprehensive awareness programs to improve knowledge and screening participation in the region.
Key words: Cervical cancer, knowledge, screening, Pap smear, Saudi Arabia.
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