Women's Knowledge and Attitudes Towards Cervical Cancer Screening in Morocco

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Oncology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Cervical cancer remains a significant health burden in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
• Ineffective prevention policies contribute to high incidence rates.
• Understanding women's knowledge and practices is vital for improving screening program effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess Moroccan women's knowledge and practices concerning the national cervical cancer screening program.
• To identify barriers to participation in cervical cancer screening.
• To inform the development of targeted communication strategies.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted in Casablanca, Morocco, in 2019.
• Data were collected from women aged 18+ attending primary healthcare centers.
• Surveys assessed knowledge of cervical cancer, screening program details, and reasons for non-participation.

Main Results:

• While 77% of women knew about the screening program, awareness of target populations (46%) and screening intervals (20%) was low.
• Only 28% of eligible women had ever participated in cervical cancer screening.
• Identified risk factors included multiple sexual partners (4.3%) and STDs (4%).

Conclusions:

• Significant gaps exist in Moroccan women's knowledge regarding cervical cancer screening.
• Low screening participation rates highlight the need for improved awareness and communication.
• Implementing targeted communication strategies is essential to boost screening program engagement and reduce cervical cancer incidence.