“I Just Went for the Screening, But I Did Not Go for the Results”. Utilization of Cervical Cancer Screening and Vaccination among Females at Oyibi Community

BACKGROUND: Cervical cancer screening and vaccination practices is reported to have low coverage in most developing countries. It has been reported that most women are aware of cervical cancer screening and vaccination worldwide. Nevertheless, the rate at which women participate in cervical cancer screening and vaccination was found to be low both locally and internationally. Consequently, in sub-Saharan Africa, cervical cancer screening programs have poor coverage. The aim of this study was to explore the practices of cervical cancer screening and vaccination among females at Oyibi community. METHODS: The researchers employed a qualitative exploratory design to recruit 35 participants put into five Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Five FGDs were formed with seven (7) members in each group. The members were purposely recruited. The sample size was based on data saturation. Data was retrieved using a semi-structured interview guide. The researchers served as moderators in the group. RESULTS: Two (2) main themes with Eight (8) subthemes were generated from the data analysis. The themes were; (cervical cancer screening and vaccination practices), and (perceived benefits of cervical cancer screening and vaccination). The subthemes that emerged were as follows: types of cervical screening and vaccination done by participants, experiences during cervical cancer screening, experiences during cervical cancer vaccination, decision to go for cervical cancer screening and vaccination, willingness to recommend cervical cancer screening and vaccination to other women, early detection of cervical cancer through early screening, benefits of cervical cancer vaccination, and willingness to receive cervical cancer vaccine. The study also revealed that most of the women who had done the screening and vaccination were young (19-29 years). CONCLUSION: The results from the study indicated that the participants’ utilization of cervical cancer screening and vaccination were poor although they were conscious of the benefits of cervical cancer screening and vaccination and were willing to recommend it to their relatives and their loved ones.