Prevalence and Determinants of Cervical Cancer Screening Uptake among Women in Bhutan.

Abstract

Globally, the cervical cancer is the most common cancer among women and the leading cause of death in developing countries. Although, it is largely preventable with 40% reduction in both mortality and morbidity of the disease, cervical cancer remain the most frequent cancer among women in Bhutan. This study assessed the prevalence and associated factors for cervical cancer screening uptake among Bhutanese women. A community based cross sectional study was conducted among 250 women selected by a convenient sampling approach. The data was collected using pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire. Chi-square test (p<0.05) and odds ratio with corresponding 95% confidence intervals were used to determine the association between screening and independent variables. Followed by multivariate analysis was performed to determine predictors of cervical cancer screening. 61.6 % (154) of total women had screened for cervical cancer in the past six years. The study revealed evidence of significant association between increasing age, those who are married, and level of knowledge. There is an imperative need for awareness and health promotion program to scale up cervical cancer screening uptake among women in Bhutan.