Exploring cervical cancer awareness, perceptions and screening uptake among rural women in Oshikoto region, Namibia

Abstract

Background:Cervical cancer is a worldwide public health concern; however, it is a preventable non-communicable disease that can be detected early through screening and treatment of pre-cancerous lesions and effective management. Whilst good progress has been seen in developed countries, this is not reflected in Sub-Saharan countries, including Namibia. Awareness of the disease, how screening is perceived by women, and its prevention remain essential for promoting early detection and treatment. Cervical cancer prevention efforts in low- and middle-income countries, especially in rural communities, are hampered by social and cultural barriers. The researcher’s observation is that in the Oshikoto region, among rural women, information regarding cervical cancer, awareness of it, the perception of it, and screening uptake is limited. The research was conducted to gain a deeper understanding of this public health issue among rural women, in support of early detection and timely prevention. Purpose: To explore rural women’s awareness of cervical cancer, their perceptions of it, and cervical cancer screening uptake. Setting: The study was conducted at Olukonda Clinic in the Oshikoto Region, Namibia. Methods: A qualitative exploratory design was used to examine cervical cancer awareness, perceptions, and screening uptake among rural women aged 18 to 55 and above in the Olukonda rural community. A convenient sample of 17 rural women, of diverse ages, educational backgrounds, and employment status, most of whom were mothers, participated in the study. Face-to-face semi-structured individual interviews were conducted to explore women’s awareness, perceptions, and uptake of cervical iii cancer screening. Data were collected between February and March 2024. The data were analysed using Tesch’s open coding method. Results: Despite the fact that women had limited knowledge regarding cervical cancer, it was evident that they had a high perception of the risk of developing cervical cancer, and some understood the importance of screening. Although women expressed interest in being screened, they were let down by the system, as community nurses were not always available to conduct screening in rural clinics. Conclusion: Women were challenged in terms of distance and finances to reach screening facilities. Also, information about the disease is shared sparingly. Patriarchy, religion and myths are barriers towards screening uptake in this rural setting. The Ministry of Health and Social Services of Namibia (MOHSS) must prioritise rural women’s health by developing culturally appropriate cervical cancer awareness programmes and advocating for accessible screening services to support the elimination of cervical cancer in rural communities.