The effects of cervical cancer screening campaigns: follow-up discussions with women in Makhuduthamaga sub-district, Sekhukhune District, Limpopo Province, South Africa

Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer remains a global burden and is regarded as the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide. The high mortality of cervical cancer among women in the Makhuduthamaga sub-district is a major concern to the researcher. Consequently, a study was conducted to explore the perceptions of women about cervical cancer screening, aiming to discover the possible factors contributing to mortality. The objectives were to gather the perceptions of women regarding cervical cancer screening to empower women about cervical cancer screening in the Makhuduthamaga sub-district.

Methods: A qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory approach was used. Women between the ages of 30 and 70 years from the randomly selected 10 clinics of the Makhuduthamaga sub-district were chosen through purposive sampling. Data obtained from the study were analysed thematically using categorisation.

Results: The findings revealed participants’ inadequate knowledge about cervical cancer screening. There was an indication that participants who screened for cervical cancer were fearful of death and loss of the uterus and did not undertake screening for prophylactic purposes. Furthermore, participants did not know to screen for cervical cancer due to ignorance.

Conclusion: Knowledge about cervical cancer influenced participants’ decisions about cervical cancer screening. The results revealed a great need for health education for all women, health workers, and home-based carers about the importance of cervical cancer and screening. Cervical cancer screening awareness campaigns are crucial to reduce cancer mortality.