Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Women Regarding Pap Smear in Surallah, South Cotabato

Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths in women worldwide and second in the Philippines. However, Pap smear test, a common screening test procedure for the detection of cervical cancer, remains underutilized, contributin to the increasing incidence of cervical cancer. Women's knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) must be measured to ensure good, targeted interventions; and increase screening and detection of cervical cancer cases.

Objectives: The study aims to determine the KAPof women in Surallah, South Cotabato, towards Pap smear. It also aims to help the local government, college administrators, and rural health unit create programs to enhance women's KAPin the municipality.

Methodology: The study used a descriptive, cross-sectional design, employing questionnaires manually distributed to determine the KAP of women in Surallah, South Cotabato.

Results: The study included 375 respondents. Most know the purpose and importance of a Pap smear but are in need of better understanding of the procedure and the timing of the test. Most of the respondents also had varied reactions toward the test toward the test; some had positive attitudes, and others had negative attitudes. The respondents didn't undergo the procedure despite having a good knowledge of it.

Conclusion: Most respondents correctly understood the importance of the procedure but needed to learn how it was done. They also have a fair to commendable attitude towards the test. However, despite these, the respondents still practice poorly due to misconceptions and misinformation.