| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3396318 | Clinical Epidemiology and Global Health | 2015 | 6 Pages |
Background and objectivesCancer cervix and breast are the leading cancers of women in rural and urban India respectively. An opportunistic screening program for cancer cervix and cancer breast was initiated in Tamil Nadu, India since 2011. We estimated the acceptance of screening for cervical and breast cancer and cancer awareness among women attending primary health care facilities in Villupuram district, Tamil Nadu, India.MethodsWe did a cross sectional study among women aged ≥30 years attending PHCs in Villupuram during 2013. Sample size for the cluster design was 240 women with PHC as cluster. We collected data regarding acceptance of screening and awareness regarding cancer cervix and breast risk factors, screening and treatment using semi structured questionnaire. We computed the proportions for the acceptance and awareness related variables.ResultsWe surveyed 240 women with mean age of 44 years. Only 70 (29%) and 83 (35%) women agreed to undergo cancer cervix and cancer breast screening respectively. Overall, 167 (70%) had ever heard of cancer. The proportion of women who were aware of cancer cervix and cancer breast screening were 20% and 18% respectively. Women unaware of any risk factors of cancer cervix and breast were 81% and 85% respectively.ConclusionWe observed low acceptance of cancer screening and poor awareness regarding risk factors and treatment. There is need for awareness programs involving mass media and community health workers and increased emphasis on counseling prior to the screening to allay the fears and to address the misperceptions.
