AN EPIDEMIOLOGICAL STUDY ON EARLY DETECTION OF CERVICAL CANCER AND BARRIERS FOR SEEKING PREVENTIVE HEALTHCARE AMONG RURAL FEMALES IN NORTH INDIA

Abstract

Lack of sufficient knowledge about detection and prevention of cervical cancer has made it one of the fastest growing cancers among Indian women. 200 rural women, ages 30 to 60, were evaluated as part of this cross-sectional research that took place in Jawan Village. Information was gathered via a standardized questionnaire that examined sociodemographic, awareness of cervical cancer, and barriers to receiving healthcare. IBM SPSS 26.0 was used for statistical analysis. The majority of the participants were homemakers and uneducated. Only 28.5% knew about cancer, and 71% had no idea that it can be cured if diagnosed early. 11% of respondents felt that tobacco use had a minimal impact on cervical cancer. Domestic responsibilities (61%) were mirrored in barriers to healthcare access. Moreover, 68% of respondents were unaware of the availability of HPV vaccine for prevention of cervical cancer. The critical need for focused health education initiatives and increased access to healthcare in rural regions is highlighted by this study. Comprehensive public health programs should target sociocultural obstacles, increase public knowledge of government institutions, and close knowledge gaps about cervical cancer.