Knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions about cervical cancer, and the uptake of cervical cancer screening in Nigeria: An integrative review.

Abstract

This review evaluated the evidence on the knowledge of, and attitudes towards cervical cancer, as well as the utilization of cervical cancer screening services in Nigeria. A literature search of articles was done on MEDLINE, Google Scholar, and EBSCO databases. Relevant articles were screened for eligibility and 9 papers were selected. One additional study was obtained from the reference list of one of the chosen papers. The Joanna Briggs Institute and AXIS Critical Appraisal tool checklists were used to evaluate the quality of the articles. The knowledge of cervical cancer, and the uptake of screening were poor among the general population. Expectedly, health workers had more awareness of the disease, however, their uptake of screening was found to be inadequate. Several barriers to cervical cancer screening were identified, including concerns about modesty and consent from partners. Culture, religion, and socioeconomic status affect the health-seeking behaviors of women in Nigeria, and this holds true for access of cervical cancer screening. In order to improve the uptake of screening services, health education interventions that are well suited to the prevailing cultures of the people should be embarked upon.