Factors associated with cervical cancer screening among women attending gynecological consultations at the Maroua Regional Hospital, Cameroon

This study aimed to assess the factors associated with cervical cancer screening at the Maroua Regional Hospital. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 376 women aged ≥25 years attending gynecological consultations at the Maroua Regional Hospital between February and May 2023. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire survey. These factors were evaluated through multiple logistic regression analyses, and associations were established by calculating the odds ratios, confidence intervals, and p-values. A total of 376 women were interviewed. Their mean age was 39.21 ± 10.45 years. Of the 376 women, 9.3% had already been screened for cervical cancer. Results of multivariate analyses indicated that age ≥45 years, belief that every woman should be screened at age 25 years, perceived need for frequent screening, use of screening as a preventive measure, and having had first intercourse before age 15 years or between ages 15 and 20 years significantly increased the likelihood of having been screened. Strategies need to be developed to improve access to cervical cancer screening services in Cameroon by strengthening existing screening programs and effectively implementing campaigns to improve access to screening services.