Cervical Cancer Screening Services in Nepal: A Descriptive Crosssectional Study

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Public Health
• Gynecology

Background:

• Cervical cancer is a leading cause of cancer deaths in reproductive-age women in Nepal.
• The study addresses the critical need to assess cervical cancer screening services within the country.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the current status of cervical cancer screening facilities and services in Nepal.
• To identify gaps in screening availability, resources, and treatment options.

Main Methods:

• A quantitative, cross-sectional study was conducted in 572 health facilities across Nepal from October to December 2022.
• Data collection focused on screening facilities, dedicated rooms, service availability, cost, human resources, and treatment options.

Main Results:

• Only 23.42% of facilities offered cervical cancer screening.
• While 76.12% provided routine services and 83.58% offered them free of charge, only 23.13% had treatment options.
• Training varied, with 90.30% having staff trained in visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA), but only 3.73% trained in Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP).

Conclusions:

• The majority of Nepalese healthcare facilities lack essential cervical cancer screening provisions.
• Significant gaps exist in advanced treatment capabilities and specialized personnel for cervical cancer management.