Knowledge of Risk Factors for Cervical Cancer among Women in Togo

Abstract

Background. Despite the high morbidity and mortality rates associated with cervical cancer in Togo, there is a lack of studies documenting the knowledge of risk factors for this disease. Purposes. The aims of this study are 1-to assess the knowledge of risk factors for cervical cancer among women in Togo; and 2-to develop policies which can potentially contribute to the prevention of cervical cancer in Togo. Method. Data were collected from 147 women via a cross-sectional survey conducted in Lomé, Togo in January 2011. Results. Data analysis indicates poor knowledge of risk factors for cervical cancer among the participants. The study also shows that knowing someone with cancer is negatively associated with knowledge of risk factors for cervical cancer. Conclusion. Using a feminist sociological theory, the study points towards the difference in status among genders as the main explicative factor of the poor knowledge of risk factors for cervical cancer among the respondents. The findings lead to policy implications.