Cervical cancer prevention behaviors and determinants among Indigenous women in rural Nepal

Abstract

Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death among Nepali women, and most have not been screened. Little is known about cervical cancer prevention behaviors [e.g. screening and human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccination] and behavioral determinants (e.g. knowledge and attitudes) among Nepal’s minority groups, and no study to date has examined Tamang women exclusively. The objective of the study was to assess cervical cancer prevention behaviors and determinants in Tamang women. We utilized an in-person, one-on-one questionnaire, administered by a research-trained Nepali woman visiting women in their homes (n = 250) in three municipalities of Nuwakot, Nepal. Descriptive statistics and regression models were used to characterize participants and describe factors associated with cervical cancer prevention behaviors. On average, participants were 37 years old, had a low level of knowledge about cervical cancer and preventive behaviors (18% knew at least one prevention behavior), but most had positive attitudes toward screening (76.80%) and HPV immunization (81.60%). Participants who knew what cervical cancer is (OR = 3.27, 95% CI: 1.29–8.31) or knew at least one risk factor for cervical cancer (OR = 2.51, 95% CI: 1.27–4.96) had higher odds of intending to seek screening. Study results suggest health education programs and policies need to be culturally tailored for women living in rural areas, include local stakeholders, use local communication methods, and incorporate familial support.