Determinants of Cervical Cancer Knowledge Among Parents/Guardians of Girls Aged 9–14 Years In Irepodun, Osun State, Nigeria.
Authors
Mr Opeyemi, Afolabi Jamal
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Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background
Cervical cancer is a leading cause of cancer mortality among women in Nigeria, yet parental knowledge, key to HPV vaccination for girls aged 9–14 years, is poorly understood. This study assessed the level and determinants of cervical cancer knowledge among parents/guardians of girls 9–14 years in Irepodun LGA, Osun State, Nigeria.
Methods
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 305 parents/guardians selected via multistage sampling in this rural setting. Data were collected using a pretested, interviewer-administered questionnaire. Knowledge was assessed with a 5-item scale, categorized as poor (0–2) or good (3–5). SPSS version 23 was used. Chi-square and multivariate logistic regression determined factors associated with good knowledge at p < 0.05.
Results
Only 34.4% had good knowledge despite 55.7% reporting prior awareness. Good knowledge increased with education: 9.5% no formal, 28.6% primary, 29.2% secondary, 66.1% tertiary (p < 0.001). It was highest among private employees (57.1%) and civil servants (45.9%), lowest among self-employed (27.5%) (p = 0.017). Among those aware, media (93.3%) and school (100.0%) sources linked to higher knowledge than healthcare providers (43.2%) (p = 0.010). Multivariate analysis showed tertiary education (AOR = 21.589; 95% CI: 3.974–117.292; p < 0.001), secondary education (AOR = 5.961; 95% CI: 1.212–29.325; p = 0.028), and prior awareness (AOR = 14.159; 95% CI: 6.832–29.342; p < 0.001) predicted good knowledge. Self-employment was negatively associated (AOR = 0.430; 95% CI: 0.206–0.899; p = 0.025).
Conclusion
Knowledge is low and influenced by education, occupation, and prior awareness. Awareness alone is insufficient. Healthcare providers contribute less than media and school sources. Targeted interventions for less educated and self-employed parents, plus strengthened provider communication, are essential to improve parental knowledge and advance cervical cancer prevention.
Keywords: Cervical cancer; Knowledge; Parents; Determinants; Girls; Nigeria
Keywords
References
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