Knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors among educated women in Lomé, Togo: Half-truths and misconceptions

Abstract

Cervical cancer, a highly preventable form of cancer, is mostly common among women in sub-Saharan Africa. This study assessed what Togolese educated women know about cervical cancer and the accuracy of their knowledge. It also examined the factors that correlate with accurate knowledge among the women. This study, like its previous ones, pointed out the lack of accurate knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors among educated women in Togo. However, unlike the earlier studies, it showed the beliefs and thoughts of educated women with regard to cervical cancer knowledge and explained some of the inaccuracies of the beliefs. It also showed the necessity of educating Togolese women, even the educated ones, about cervical cancer and its risk factors as these women hold inaccurate knowledge about the disease. Ideally, screening for cervical cancer is the primary means to control it. However, in an environment where screening is not readily available and accessible, knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors may aid women to change behaviors that put them at risk. Although health officials may have their own priorities, it is very important to know that cervical cancer is a public health issue, which could be curbed.