Awareness – Screening Gap in Cervical Cancer Prevention: Findings from a Screening Initiative in a Community Hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Background: Cervical cancer remains a major public health problem in many low- and middle-income countries. Despite the availability of effective, low-cost screening methods, participation remains limited in Bangladesh. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between March and December 2023 among 400 women attending a community hospital in Dhaka during a cervical cancer awareness and screening initiative. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, awareness, and screening history were collected. Participants underwent screening using Pap smear or Visual Inspection with Acetic acid (VIA). Results: Although 71.5% of participants were aware of cervical cancer and 68.5% were aware of screening, only 7.5% had undergone prior screening. Early sexual debut (<15 years) was reported by 42%. Pap smear findings were predominantly inflammatory, with no premalignant or malignant lesions detected. VIA also revealed no suspicious lesions. Conclusion: A substantial gap exists between awareness and screening participation. Strengthening community-based awareness and improving access to screening services are essential to enhance cervical cancer prevention in Bangladesh.