Assessing Knowledge of Cervical Cancer Screening and HumanPapilloma Virus Prevention in Security Personnel and Their Families:A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Cervical cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality among women in Nepal, despite being largely preventable through early screening and Human Papillomavirus vaccination. Limited evidence exists regarding knowledge of cervical cancer prevention among Armed Police Force personnel and their families. This study aimed to assess awareness and knowledge of cervical cancer, its risk factors, screening methods, and vaccination among this population.

 Methods: This was a hospital-based descriptive cross-sectional study conducted over a four-month period after obtaining approval from the Institutional Review Committee (Reference number: NAPFH-026/2024). A structured, validated questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics and knowledge of cervical cancer, screening methods, and vaccination. A convenience sampling included 410 participants. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 26.

 Results: Among 410 participants, 315 (76.83%) had heard of cervical cancer, with media 104 (25.36%) being the most common source of information. Knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors and symptoms was variable, with multiple sexual partners 157 (38.29%) and post-menopausal bleeding 154 (37.56%) being the most frequently identified. More than half of the respondents, 225 (54.87%), believed cervical cancer is preventable, and 222 (54.15%) identified regular screening as a key preventive method. Although 251 (61.22%) had heard of the HPV vaccine, only 95 (23.17%) correctly identified the optimal timing for vaccination, and substantial misconceptions persisted regarding HPV infection, vaccine availability, and the necessity of screening after vaccination.

Conclusions: While general awareness of cervical cancer was moderate, substantial knowledge gaps exist regarding HPV-related prevention and screening practices. Targeted education and counselling initiatives are essential to improve cervical cancer prevention and early detection among security personnel and their families.