LEVEL OF KNOWLEDGE OF FACTORS TRIGGERING CERVICAL CANCER IN A PRIVATE UNIVERSITY IN PARAGUAY

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Worldwide, cervical cancer is the fourth most common in women, according to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) in 2018, "In underdeveloped countries, cervical cancer is the seventh cause of cancer and in developing countries is the second most frequent, as a consequence of health inequities¨ Tena Alavez G. 2013. ¨Cervical cancer is the first cause of death in at least thirty-six countries, and ranks fourth cause of incidence and mortality worldwide, with 604,000 new cases and 342,000 deaths annually, with a significant disparity observed between low-, middle-, and high-income countries¨
Global Cancer Statistics 2020. Objective: To evaluate the level of knowledge and practices related to the prevention of cervical cancer among female students at a Private University. Methodology: Cross-sectional, descriptive, and convenience sampling study. Female students from a private university, majoring in Psychology and Nursing, were included, with their prior authorization, excluding those who had not attended classes on the date of application, those who did not access participation and men in general. The variables studied were evaluated through a survey related to the topic, validated by professionals
and non-professionals in the area. The sample consists of [….] female students. The data were analyzed through statistical graphs. Results: All of the respondents are female. 77% expressed their knowledge of the subject. 75% affirm that the screening test should be done after initiating sexual relations. 90% mention that the test should be performed even when the vaccine is
sufficient. 85% opted for the item of a PAP test every year after starting sexual life. 89% affirm that they have already had their first sexual relationship. 96% mention that they do not have more than two sexual partners. Conclusion: The majority of respondents have considerable knowledge about cervical cancer, its prevention protocol and Risk Factors.