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Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening among Women in Rural Communities in FCT, Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study

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DOI: 10.21522/TIJPH.2013.14.02.Art012

Authors : Igbinomwanhia, V., Olasunkanmi, Y., Ibrahim, A., Olukomogbon, T., Jedy-Agba, E.

Abstract:

Breast cancer (BC) and cervical cancer (CC) remain significant public health challenges in Nigeria, particularly in rural communities with limited access to screening services. This cross-sectional study assessed knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and practices related to BC and CC screening among 333 consenting women aged ≥30 years in rural communities of the Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria, between October and December 2024. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire, with scores below the mean categorized as poor knowledge, negative attitude, and poor practice. Data management was conducted using REDCap, and analyses were performed using Stata MP version 18, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. The mean age of participants was 39.95 ± 9.02 years, and 59.8% were aged below 40 years. Good knowledge of BC screening was observed in 57.0% of participants, whereas 77.0% demonstrated poor knowledge of CC screening. Positive attitudes toward BC and CC screening were reported by 57.0% and 63.7% of participants, respectively. Higher educational attainment and Igbo ethnicity were significantly associated with good knowledge of BC and CC screening, while younger age and Yoruba ethnicity were associated with better CC screening practices. Despite generally positive attitudes, substantial gaps in knowledge, particularly regarding CC screening, persist. Strengthening community-based health education, integrating cancer screening into primary healthcare services, and implementing culturally appropriate interventions are essential policy measures to improve screening uptake and promote early detection in rural Nigerian populations.

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