The knowledge of cervical cancer and screening adherence among nurses at a university-affiliated hospital in Japan

Objective: Screening is an effective method for preventing cervical cancer. However, Japan has lower screening rates compared with other developed countries. The objective of this study was to explore the relation between the knowledge of cervical cancer and screening adherence among nurses at a hospital in Japan. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a self-administered, anonymous questionnaire was distributed to 917 female nurses working at a university-affiliated hospital to assess their knowledge regarding cervical cancer and screening adherence. Results: A total of 532 nurses (57.9%) completed the questionnaires. Overall, 13.7% of the nurses participated in cervical cancer screening in the last 2 years; however, only 9.6% of nurses ≤29 years old participated in the screening. Nonadherence was associated with knowledge deficit: Cervical cancer screening is recommended once every 2 years (odds ratio [OR], 2.93; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.63-5.27); the incidence of cervical cancer increases in women in their 20s and 30s (OR, 2.77; 95% CI, 1.19-6.47); the lowered target age for cervical cancer screening is ≥20 years (OR, 2.07; 95% CI, 1.19-3.59); and human papillomavirus infection can cause cervical cancer (OR, 2.02; 95% CI, 1.08-3.75). Conclusions: There was a significant association between knowledge about cervical cancer and screening adherence among Japanese nurses in Japan. These results provide a baseline for future research and suggest strategies to improve screening adherence.