“A study on socio-demographic-based knowledge and awareness for cervical cancer among women from Uttar Pradesh, India”

Abstract

Background

Cervical cancer has led to unprecedented mortality in developing countries, including India. Socio-demographic factors are known to influence knowledge of cervical cancer, screening practices, and HPV vaccination. This study aims to assess cervical cancer awareness and vaccination willingness among women in Uttar Pradesh, India, and identify key socio-demographic determinants.

Methods

A clinical and community-based survey in northern India was conducted with a total of 666 women of ≥20 years of age. The survey, developed and verified through expert consultation and pilot testing, covered socio-demographics, cervical cancer knowledge, symptoms, HPV awareness, and vaccine attitudes. Online, offline, and targeted outreach distributed the questionnaire randomly to the general public. Data was analyzed using SPSS 16.0 descriptive statistics, cross-tabulation, and chi-square testing.

Results

Among the 666 participants involved in this survey, 516 women (77.5 %) were acquainted with the word “cervical cancer”. Only 235 (45.57 %) of the female participators had sound understanding with regard to cervical cancer symptoms (mean score: 7.7); however, it was less in women dwelling in rural areas (p < 0.05). In less or uneducated women, low-income household women, and rural dwellers, the knowledge regarding HPV-mediated cervical cancer and willingness to get vaccinated against HPV were low (p < 0.05 and p < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion

This study reveals critical gaps in cervical cancer awareness and vaccination willingness, particularly among socio-economically disadvantaged and rural women. In impoverished areas, targeted public health interventions including information campaigns and affordable HPV vaccines are needed to improve early stage identification and prevention.