CIN: Computers, Informatics, Nursing

Associations of eHealth Literacy With Cervical Cancer and Human Papillomavirus Awareness Among Women in Türkiye

Internet is women's primary source of information about cervical cancer and human papillomavirus. The aim of this study was to determine the associations of electronic health literacy with cervical cancer and human papillomavirus awareness among women of reproductive age. This is a cross-sectional study. The research sample consisted of 330 women of reproductive age (15-49 years), who were admitted to family health centers. The data were collected between July and August 2023 using eHealth Literacy Scale and the Cervical Cancer and Human Papillomavirus Awareness Questionnaire. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to explore the predictors of cervical cancer and human papillomavirus awareness. In this study, the mean score of women's knowledge about cervical cancer and human papillomavirus was found to be low (4.54 ± 3.94), and the mean score of threat perception was found to be moderate (45.60 ± 6.54). eHealth literacy was found to be a predictor of women's knowledge about cervical cancer and human papillomavirus and threat perception. This result suggests that eHealth literacy should be considered for interventions to increase knowledge and awareness of women about cervical cancer and human papillomavirus.

Prevalence of Cervical Cancer Overscreening

Appropriately matching preventive health services and screenings with patient risk is an important quality indicator. Adherence by both providers and patients to cervical cancer screening guidelines has been inconsistent, resulting in overscreening and increased costs. This study examined the prevalence of cervical cancer overscreening following changes in screening guidelines in a wellness registry database. Cervical cancer overscreening after guideline implementation decreased for 18- to 20-year-old patients from 26.8% to 24.8% (P < .001) and increased for those aged 65 years and older from 11.1% to 12.5% (P = .0005). Black race, Hispanic ethnicity, Medicaid insurance, and the presence of a personal health record were associated with overscreening. Reliability and accuracy of data are a concern when data intended for one purpose, such as clinical care, are used for research. Correctly identifying screening tests in the electronic health record is important so that appropriate screening can be reliably assessed. In this study on the prevalence of cervical cancer overscreening, we used a focused chart review to identify whether screening Pap tests were accurately identified in the electronic medical record. Pap tests were correctly identified as screening in 85% of those aged 18 to 20, and in 74% of those aged 65 and older.