Barriers to Cervical Cancer Screening Uptake Among Females in the Asokwa Municipality, Ashanti Region.

Abstract

Background: Globally, cervical cancer is on the increase, particularly in sub-Saharan African countries and in the year 2020, up to 604,127 women in the world were diagnosed with the disease and with 341,831 deaths. Cervical cancer remains a significant public health issue, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) such as Ghana. This study investigates the barriers to cervical cancer screening uptake among females in the Asokwa Municipality of the Ashanti Region, using the Health Belief Model (HBM) as a framework. Methodology: A quantitative approach with cross-sectional survey design was employed in collecting and analysing data involving a sample size of 398 females aged 18 years and above. Data were collected through structured questionnaires focusing on knowledge, perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, self-efficacy, and cues to action regarding cervical cancer screening uptake. Results: The findings revealed that only 17.8% of respondents had ever undergone cervical cancer screening, and 40.3% were aware of cervical cancer as a health issue. Key barriers identified include low knowledge about cervical cancer screening (64.89% had never been screened), lack of awareness about the importance of screening (48.2% felt screening is not important) fear of the screening process (29.9% reported fear), cultural beliefs (30% felt cultural restrictions), and socioeconomic factors (45% cited cost as a barrier). Conclusion: The study concludes that significant barriers such as low knowledge about cervical screening, cultural beliefs and socioeconomic factors hinder the uptake of cervical cancer screening in the Asokwa Municipality, necessitating targeted interventions. It is recommended that public health campaigns focus on increasing awareness and education about cervical cancer and its prevention. Additionally, healthcare providers should address fears and cultural beliefs associated with screening through community engagement and counselling. Policy interventions should aim at making screening more accessible and affordable, potentially through subsidized programs or mobile screening units to reach underserved areas.