Investigation of knowledge and practice regarding Papanikolaou test in women health professionals

Cervical cancer is among the most frequent cancers worldwide. Its prevention is possible with Papanikolaou test (Pap test). Purpose: The purpose was to investigate the knowledge of women-health professionals, as well as the frequency of Pap testing among them. Material and method: 151 women health professionals, aged 18-65 years old took part in the study. A closed –type questionnaire, consisting of 66 items was used. The statistical test x2 and Mann-Whitney –U were used. Results: 60 % were AEI/TEI graduates and 65 % were residents of provincial towns. Monthly family income was between 1000-2000 Euros in 46% of the participants.60 % of the women knew exactly the purpose of the test, whereas the younger women , those who were unmarried and inhabitants of rural areas were statistically less probable to take the test, even for once in a lifetime(p<0.01). Conclusion: Women health professionals as a whole do not know the exact purpose of Pap test. The young, unmarried women, living in rural areas neglect taking the test.

Keywords: Cervical cancer, Pap test, knowledge, health professionals