The level of medical students’ knowledge regarding the prevention of cervical cancer

Abstract

Background: In Palestine, cervical cancer is the third most common gynecological cancer, exhibiting higher mortality rates compared to regional counterparts. Late-stage diagnosis and limited awareness contribute to this disparity. This study aims to assess the awareness of Palestinian medical students regarding cervical cancer prevention. Methods: A questionnaire-based survey involving 532 medical students from various Palestinian universities was conducted between October 2023 and December 2023. The survey encompassed closed-ended quantitative and demographic questions, distributed through social media. Results: The study was carried out on a group of 532 medical students (66.3% women and 33.6% men), (average age 21.7 y). Most students (77.7%) knew that the main risk factor for cervical cancer is human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Participants doing Internship had the greatest knowledge, whereas students from the First year had the poorest knowledge about the main risk factor for cancer of the cervix. Only about half 50.2% of all students knew that in Palestine there is no screening program. 84.4% Students correctly indicated that the cervical cancer screening test is a pap smear test. 41.4% of respondents knew that microscopic evaluation of the exfoliated cells from the vaginal part of the cervix is the screening test for cervical cancer which is used. Only about half of students (45.1%) knew that there are no specific early symptoms of cervical cancer. Conclusions: This study highlights the need for enhanced education, particularly regarding screening program awareness, among Palestinian medical students. Addressing these knowledge gaps is crucial for effective preventive strategies.