CONHECIMENTOS SOBRE RASTREIO E DIAGNÓSTICO PRECOCE DE CÂNCER DE COLO UTERINO ENTRE AS MULHERES QUE FREQUENTAM UM AMBULATÓRIO DE UM CENTRO UNIVERSITÁRIO NA CIDADE DE PORTO VELHO – RO - BRASIL

Cervical cancer (CCU) is one of the most common types among women, making early diagnosis essential for better prognoses. It is characterized by slow progression, but it is amenable to screening and rapid detection, which can lead to effective treatment and a promising prognosis. Human papiloma virus (HPV) infection, especially by subtypes 16 and 18, is a necessary but not sufficient condition for the development of cervical cancer. The oncotic cytology test (Pap smear) aims to detect precursor lesions of CCU. This study investigated the level of knowledge about cervical cancer screening and early diagnosis among women attending an outpatient clinic at a University Center in Porto Velho, RO. A qualitative and descriptive approach was used through questionnaires to assess understanding of the preventive exam (Pap smear), risk factors, and preventive practices. The results showed: (i) high adherence to the cervical cancer preventive exam among participants; (ii) non-use of condoms (70%); (iii) educational actions on the preventive exam (60%); (iv) structural and personal barriers limiting access to the preventive exam; (v) 56.7% of participants had information about HPV; (vi) 83.3% of participants reported knowledge of cervical cancer; (vii) lack of knowledge about the frequency of the preventive exam in 55% of participants; (viii) 88.3% believe that early diagnosis improves prognosis and treatment success. The results of this study may help to develop effective educational interventions that encourage the preventive exam, contributing to reducing incidence and mortality rates associated with CCU, and improving women’s health in the region.