Abstract:
This study explored factors influencing utilization of cervical cancer screening services among women aged 15 years and above attending RCH clinics in primary health facilities in Kibondo district. Specifically, the study intended to assess the magnitude of cervical cancer among women aged 15 years and above in primary health facilities,, determine the level of utilization of cervical cancer screening services among women aged 15 years and above attending RCH clinics in primary health facilities, identify factors facilitating utilization of cervical and describe how proper or improper the utilization of cervical cancer screening contributes to the magnitude of cervical cancer among women aged 15 years and above in primary health facilities.
The study employed a case study design, drawing a sample of 114 respondents which included 14 health workers and 100 reproductive women who had attended RCH in Kibondo health facilities. The sample size of 114 respondents was calculated from the population of the screened women. Purposive sampling was used to select health workers while simple convenience sampling was used to select reproductive women who had attended RCH health facilities. Primary data were collected through interviews and secondary data were collected through documentary review. Content analysis was used to analyzee the data from in-depth interviews.
The findings showed a high mortality rate due to cervical cancer and low level of utilization cervical cancer screening services in the study area. It also indicated that Improper utilization of cervical cancer screening services contributes to the high magnitude of cervical cancer and this was influenced by various factors including support from spouse, financial constraints, time spent waiting services, and accessibility of screening service
It is recommended that there should be an education campaigns on the importance of early cervical cancer screening. Also the screening services should be provided throughout the year in every dispensary and health center to minimize or eradicate cervical cancer burden to women of reproductive age in Kibondo district.
