Knowledge of Cervical Cancer Among Women of Childbearing Age: A Qualitative Study of a Local Council in South-Eastern Nigeria

The study investigated the knowledge of cervical cancer among women of childbearing age in a local council of a southeastern Nigerian state, aiming at improving attitudes toward screening uptake and early detection. The health belief model served as a guide for the study's qualitative exploratory research design. Using a combination of purposive and availability sampling strategies, a sample of 20 women participants with varying ages (23-36 years) were selected from 10 villages. The findings revealed that participants have limited knowledge of cervical cancer, with misconceptions and cultural beliefs influencing their understanding. The findings identified factors contributing to the lack of knowledge, including limited access to information and resources, fear, social disapproval, and financial constraints resulting from poverty. The findings also revealed that lack of knowledge has detrimental effects on women's mental, psychological, and social lives, including their relationships with friends and family. In addition, education, awareness campaigns, collaboration with medical personnel, and community engagements were effective strategies to enhance knowledge and awareness of cervical cancer programs among women. The study revealed that the findings imply social work. However, the study recommended that future investigations should consider a larger, more diverse sample to validate these findings and explore strategies to improve knowledge and awareness of cervical cancer among women in Nigeria.