Knowledge and attitudes regarding cervical cancer among adult Kuwaiti women: A cross-sectional study

Cervical cancer is a significant public health issue, mostly caused by infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV). To evaluate the knowledge and attitudes regarding cervical cancer among women in Kuwait aiming to identify knowledge gaps that may inform future prevention and early-detection strategies. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted from February 2024 to August 2024, with 350 female employees recruited using a total population sampling approach from the Public Authority for Applied Education and Training in Kuwait. Data were gathered utilizing a verified digitally disseminated questionnaire. The analysis utilized the Pearson chi-squared test, incorporating additional degrees of freedom, using Cramér's V as the effect size metric. The research adhered to the STROBE reporting standards. The survey encompassed 350 female employees from the Public Authority for Applied Education and Training in Kuwait. 62.2% (n = 218) were over the age of 30. 53.7% (n = 189) of the people who answered the survey were married. A total of 26.8% (n = 94) of the participants said they had more than three children, and 59.8% said they had at least a bachelor's degree. A large majority (85.8%) knew about cervical cancer. Still, more than half (55.2%) didn't know that the cause was a virus. 76% of people knew about the Pap smear for early detection, but it's intriguing that 71% of married people said they had never had the test. Vaccination data showed a low rate of prophylaxis, thus, even while participants know a lot about the HPV vaccination, very few of them get it (around 15%). The sample analyzed demonstrated positive attitudes: 66% agreed on the significance of future screenings, while 48.2% conveyed optimism for forthcoming immunizations. There exists a notable divergence between public awareness and clinical participation among educated women in Kuwait. Public health campaigns must progress beyond broad awareness to address deficiencies in HPV etiology and obstacles to vaccine uptake.