Knowledge and attitudes about cervical cancer and its prevention among female secondary school students in Nigeria

Abstract

Objective: To ascertain the level of awareness and attitudes towards cervical cancer among secondary school students in Nigeria.

Method: Cross‐sectional survey of 432 female senior secondary school students in south‐eastern Nigeria.

Results: 321 (74.3%) responses were valid. 42.7% had heard of cervical cancer, 32.8% of screening, 23.2% of Pap smears, and 22.0% of HPV/HPV vaccinations. No widely available reliable source of information exists. General knowledge about Pap smears (41.8%) and HPV (43.1%) was poor, as was specific knowledge about their benefits, timing and frequency and about HPV vaccinations, but associated attitudes were moderately positive at 60.2% and 65.1% respectively. Awareness of cervical cancers increases knowledge about when to start screening (OR=2.30; p=0.02)and about early symptoms of cervical cancer (OR=2.56; p=0.001).

Conclusion: Overall knowledge of cervical cancer is poor, but attitudes are positive. Awareness campaigns target teenage girls are necessary and can be expected to be effective. Campaigns should be delivered school teachers, health workers and religious institutions.