Abstract:

Background: Cervical cancer is a major public health concern among women in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in those aged above 35 years. Despite the availability of Pap smear and HPV testing, awareness and uptake remain suboptimal.

Objective: To assess the knowledge and attitude toward cervical cancer screening (Pap smear and HPV testing) among women aged 35–55 years.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted among 240 volunteer women aged 35 to 55 years. Data were collected using Google Forms, and responses were compiled in Google Sheets for analysis. The questionnaire included sociodemographic details, reproductive history, knowledge questions, and attitude items measured on a Likert scale. Knowledge was scored, and participants were classified into poor, moderate, or good knowledge categories. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used to summarize findings.

Results: Among 240 participants, the majority (60%) demonstrated poor knowledge regarding cervical cancer and its screening, 22% had moderate knowledge, and only 12% showed good knowledge. Awareness of HPV as the primary cause of cervical cancer was observed in just 8% of women. Despite low knowledge, most participants expressed positive attitudes, with over 70% reporting willingness to undergo screening if recommended by a healthcare provider. Common barriers included fear, embarrassment, and cost.

Conclusion: The study reveals a significant knowledge gap among women aged 35–55 years, particularly regarding HPV and cervical cancer prevention, despite a generally favorable attitude toward screening. Strengthened awareness programs, provider recommendations, and affordable screening strategies, including HPV self-sampling, may help improve screening uptake and reduce cervical cancer burden.

Keywords: Cervical cancer, Pap smear, HPV testing, knowledge, attitude, women above 35 years, screening uptake.