Beliefs and Utilization of Cervical Cancer Screening by Female Health Care Workers in Saudi Arabia Using the Health Belief Model: A Nationwide Study

Abstract

Purpose

Epidemiologically, cervical cancer is the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer among females globally and the third most commonly diagnosed gynecological cancer in Saudi Arabia. Screening is an important measure to prevent it. The current study aimed to assess, epidemiologically, female healthcare workers’ (HCWs) utilization of cervical cancer screening services and its association with their beliefs about cervical cancer and the screening test, as well as their personal characteristics.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included female HCWs in Saudi Arabia. A predesigned, self-administered survey was used to collect data, and it included questions about sociodemographic and reproductive characteristics, self-utilization of cervical cancer screening services, and the Health Belief Model (HBM) scale. Regression analyses were conducted to identify predictors of cervical cancer screening service utilization.

Results

A total of 1857 females participated. The cervical cancer screening test uptake was 24.6% of ever-married females. However, 45% of the participants were willing to have the test. The odds of utilizing a screening were significantly higher among older participants, those with a higher level of education, and those with a higher number of pregnancies. Furthermore, HCWs with a history of HPV infection, cervical cancer in the family, hormonal contraception, or immunocompromised diseases were more likely to have the screening. An increase in the mean scores of the perceived benefits and motives subscales of HBM was associated with an increase in the uptake of screening. However, an increase in perceived barrier scores was significantly associated with a lower likelihood of cervical cancer screening uptake.

Conclusion

Low cervical screening uptake and slightly higher intentions to have the test exist among HCWs. Certain personal factors and health beliefs significantly affect the utilization of the screening test. Approaches that target perceived benefits, health motivation, and perceived barriers to improve the screening rates of cervical cancer among HCWs are recommended.