Cervical cancer screening: women's knowledge, attitudes and preferences

Screening status of women aged 20-64 registered with a large group practice was determined using laboratory and general practice records. A postal survey was carried out on 1,416 women divided into: 1. 'Non-attenders'--never had a smear. 2. 'Defaulters'--smear more than five years ago. 3. 'Attenders'--smear in last five years. Screening status was related to social class and education. Single and nulliparous women were less likely to have been screened. Knowledge of the test was poor in all three groups. Most women were willing to have a smear performed and previous non-attendance might have been overcome by a call/recall system. The woman's general practitioner was the preferred taker of smears, regardless of sex. Of those willing to have the test 95% would attend the general practitioner if no alternative was provided. Improved uptake depends on an organised call/recall system with smear taking based in primary care, and on improved health education.