Factors preventing health sciences university students in Japan from undergoing cervical cancer screening: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background In most developed countries, cervical cancer screening and human papillomavirus vaccination have reduced the incidence of cervical cancer. However, the incidence of cervical cancer has been increasing in Japan, possibly because of the low screening rate. Although the incidence of cervical cancer has increased in people in their 20s, the screening rate among 20–24-year-olds in Japan is only 10.2%. Therefore, it is necessary to increase the cervical cancer screening rates in Japan, particularly among young women. Methods We conducted a questionnaire survey among students at a health sciences university to determine their knowledge of cervical cancer, screening rates, and factors that prevent young women from undergoing screening. Results We observed that knowledge of cervical cancer was high among students taking specialized medical courses; recognition of the facts that “cervical cancer can be prevented through screening” and “the risk of cervical cancer increases in one’s 20s” was high among those who had undergone screening. Coupons for free screening had an unsatisfactory effect. Conclusions The cervical cancer screening rate among Japanese university students is low. Therefore, educational programs are required to increase awareness of the importance of cervical cancer screening among young women.