Biomedical
Determinants of Cervical Cancer Screening among Female Health Professionals in Harar Town, Eastern Ethiopia: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Yahya Abdi Ziyad,
Elias Jemal,
Merga Dheresa,
Ahmedin Aliyi Usso,
Hassen Abdi Adem,
Aboma Motuma,
Mohammednur Abdo Komicha,
Addis Eyeberu,
Sherif Abdi Yuya
Peer Reviewed
Abstract
Background. Early screening for cervical cancer is a key life‐saving intervention in reducing maternal mortality and morbidity. Despite the high burden of cervical cancer, the coverage of cervical cancer screening is low in developing countries, including Ethiopia. There is a paucity of information on the utilization of cervical cancer screening among female health professionals in eastern Ethiopia. This study aimedto assess the determinants of cervical cancer screening among female health professionals in Harar town, eastern Ethiopia. Method. An institution‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted among 232 female health professionals in Harar town from September 01 to 30, 2022. Data were entered using EpiData version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 27.0. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify significant factors for the level of cervical cancer screening. An adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval was used to report the strength of association and statistical significance declared at p value 0.05. Results. The prevalence of cervical cancer screening among female health professionals was 16.8% (95% CI: 11%, 22%). Higher education level (AOR = 4.28, 95% CI: 1.68, 10.90), use of contraceptives (AOR = 2.71, 95% CI: 1.17, 6.23), training on cervical cancer screening (AOR = 2.53, 95% CI: 1.05, 6.08), good knowledge about cervical cancer screening (AOR = 3.37, 95% CI: 1.44, 7.91), and positive attitude toward cervical cancer screening (AOR = 5.31, 95% CI: 2.04, 13.83) were independent factors that increased the utilization of cervical cancer screening. Conclusion. One in every six female health professionals was screened for cervical cancer. Education level, contraceptive use, cervical cancer screening training, cervical cancer screening knowledge, and attitude toward cervical cancer screening were the determinants of cervical cancer screening utilization among female health professionals. Improving the health professionals’ knowledge and attitude toward cervical cancer screening through upgrading their education level and training on cervical cancer screening would be essential to improving the level of cervical cancer screening.
Key Questions
What is the prevalence of cervical cancer screening among female health professionals in Harar town?
The study found that only 16.8% of female health professionals in Harar town had undergone cervical cancer screening, indicating a low utilization rate.
Which factors are associated with higher utilization of cervical cancer screening?
Factors such as higher education level, contraceptive use, training on cervical cancer screening, good knowledge about cervical cancer screening, and a positive attitude toward cervical cancer screening were significantly associated with increased utilization.
How does education level influence cervical cancer screening utilization?
Female health professionals with a degree or higher were more likely to utilize cervical cancer screening compared to those with a diploma, suggesting that higher education levels contribute to better awareness and practice.
What role does training play in promoting cervical cancer screening?
Receiving training on cervical cancer screening was associated with higher screening rates, emphasizing the importance of professional development and education in encouraging screening practices.
What recommendations does the study provide to improve screening rates?
The study recommends enhancing the knowledge and attitudes of female health professionals through educational programs and training to improve the utilization of cervical cancer screening services.
