Impact of A Cervical Cancer Screening Campaign in Identifying Precancerous Lesions Among Women Residing in Selected Urban Areas: A Cross-Sectional Descriptive Analytical Study

Abstract

Background:

Cervical cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among women in developing countries like India. Although it is preventable through early detection, the utilization of screening services remains low due to lack of awareness and various barriers.

Purpose of the Study:

The purpose of the study was to identify precancerous lesions of the cervix among women, assess reproductive and lifestyle risk factors influencing cervical cancer, determine the participation rate in cervical cancer screening, identify barriers to screening, and find the association between demographic variables and the impact of the cervical cancer screening campaign.

Material and Methods:

A quantitative cross-sectional descriptive analytic design was adopted. The study was conducted among 150 women aged 21–65 years residing in selected urban areas of Sangli Miraj Kupwad Corporation using non-probability purposive sampling. Data were collected using a self-structured questionnaire followed by Pap smear examination. After completion of the questionnaire among all 150 participants, 81 women expressed willingness to undergo the Pap smear test, and screening was conducted for these participants. For those who were not willing to undergo screening, the barriers to cervical cancer screening were identified. The Pap smear results were obtained from the pathology department and analyzed accordingly. Data analysis was performed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results:

The majority of women were aged 31–40 years and were married, with most belonging to the upper-lower socioeconomic class. Early marriage, early childbirth, multiparity, and tobacco use were commonly observed risk factors, while very few women had undergone prior screening or received HPV vaccination. Out of 150 participants, 54% underwent Pap smear screening, whereas 46% were not willing, and their barriers were identified. Major barriers included preference for a female doctor, fear of pain, fear of test results, and high cost. Pap smear findings revealed that 96% of women had normal cytology (NILM), while only a small proportion showed abnormal findings, including ASC-US (2%) and LSIL (1%). Among the three women with abnormal findings, two were HIV-positive and asymptomatic, attending routine check-ups. A statistically significant association was found between participation in screening and age, marital status, education, and income (p < 0.05), whereas occupation showed no significant association.

Conclusion:

The cervical cancer screening campaign improved screening participation and enabled early detection of precancerous cervical lesions. Fear of pain, fear of test results, preference for a female doctor, and cost concerns were the major barriers to screening uptake. Increasing awareness and supportive screening services can improve participation among women.