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Conference

Global Health Conference Midwest

Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

2-3-2018

Abstract or Description

Significance

Cervical cancer is the most common cancer worldwide with increased risk among women living with HIV in a resource limited environment. Hence the need to determine factors affecting awareness, prior uptake of cervical cancer screening and willingness to screen among patients receiving Antiretroviral (ARV) drugs.

Data analysis

The data was collected by administered questionnaires to patients presenting for monthly ARV refills in a HIV clinic in Dodoma, Tanzania. A total of 421 women in the clinic with an average monthly income of 39 (USD) were interviewed. A total of 306 (73%) were aware of cervical cancer. Among those who were aware, 84 % (257) did not recall been screened for cervical cancer. A total of 231 (90%) expressed willingness to be screened among patients who have never screened for cervical cancer. The average years since HIV infection for the subjects was 5.4 years; average age was 44. A logistic regression model was used to examine factors associated with awareness of cervical cancer, prior uptake of screening and willingness to be screened. Urban dwellers were found to have higher odds of awareness than rural dwellers (OR: 3.68 95% CI: 2.12-6.38). Prior uptake of screening was found higher among urban vs. rural dwellers, OR: 3.43, 95% CI: 1.02-11.51. The willingness to be screened decreased with age (OR: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.88-0.97).

Conclusion

This study have indicated the problem of access among rural dwellers to cervical cancer screening. Willingness to screen among younger patients could be due to increased awareness of the disease among younger patients than older patients. However, the older and rural patients are at higher risk of cervical cancer and should be targeted for primary prevention.

Category

Advocacy and Health Policy

Disciplines

Public Health

Cervical Cancer Screening among Patients Receiving ARVs in a Resource-Limited Environment

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