What is the reason why women do not access screening and treatment?
A. Lack of awareness.
In a 2012 study, 72% of the study population was aware that cervical cancer affected women, with 74% knowing that it could be detected early on by screening. However, only 47% could name the PAP test as the screening method. But this isn’t the only reason.
B. No symptoms.
Only half of the population surveyed in a 2012 study were aware of the symptoms of cervical cancer. Indeed, it can take up to 20 years for HPV to develop into cancer. But this isn’t the only reason.
C. Don’t know when to have a PAP test.
90% of the women surveyed in a 2012 study of cervical cancer in India did not know when to have a PAP test. But this isn’t the only reason.
D. All of the above.
There are multiple reasons why women can’t access screening and treatment. Consequently, PSI India’s approach is to bring awareness to communities through community promoters, social media, public announcements and the training of medical professionals to provide low-cost screening and treatment.