KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE OF CERVICAL CANCER AMONG WOMEN

Background: Cervical cancer is a significant public health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like India. Despite the availability of preventive measures such as HPV vaccination and regular screening, the incidence remains high due to gaps in knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) among women. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge, attitude, and pr Objective: actice regarding cervical cancer, including its causes, prevention methods, and symptoms, among females of reproductive age attending the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at LN Medical College and associated JK Hospital, Bhopal. A cross-sectional observationa Methods: l study was conducted over six months, enrolling 500 women aged 18 years and above. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering demographic information and KAP related to cervical cancer. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. The mean age of participants was Results: 29.6 years (±3.2), ranging from 19 to 42 years. Most participants were married, belonged to the middle class (54%), had completed school education, and were unemployed (78%). Knowledge: 82% had heard about cervical cancer. However, only 16.4% knew that HPV causes cervical cancer, 38.4% understood that cervical cancer can be prevented with a vaccine, and 39.6% were aware that regular screenings could detect cervical cancer early. Attitude: 24% would advocate for cervical cancer vaccination, 36.8% believed in the effectiveness of vaccines, 38% were willing to undergo screening, and 34.4% believed that screening is effective. Practice: 43.2% had undergone a Pap smear test and VIA. Additionally, 48.4% had visited an OBGYN with concerns related to cervical cancer, but only 24% had considered getting vaccinated against HPV. The Conclusion: study revealed significant gaps in knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding cervical cancer among the participants. Despite a high level of general awareness about cervical cancer, knowledge about its causes, prevention, and early detection was limited. Educational interventions are needed to improve KAP, promote HPV vaccination, and encourage regular cervical cancer screenings.