The role of knowledge, risk perceptions, and cues to action among Iranian women concerning cervical cancer and screening: a qualitative exploration.

摘要: Background Iran has a low incidence but higher rate of death from cervical cancer (CC). The country is in the process implementing an organized screening program including HPV testing and cytology. Studies show high dropout continued among eligible women. This qualitative study aimed to explore women's awareness regarding CC role knowledge, perceived risk, cues action this process. Method Through based on Framework Method, we recruited 81 women aged 25-65 who participated 15 focus group discussions (FGDs) two in-depth interviews Tehran. interviewees were selected purposefully during January May 2015 households belonging different socioeconomic classes until data saturation. acquired through 11 open-ended questions 32 related probe questions. All transcribed independently analyzed by researchers (Kappa agreement respectively: 0.77, 97.11%). Results coded texts categorized under three themes 13 subthemes. thematic areas referred action, risks screening. results showed that had limited unspecified knowledge about screening, compounded misconceptions infection prevention measures. Social cultural barriers hindered proper communication between health system/providers clients within communities subjects risk getting was because overestimating hereditary factors for CC, difficulty differentiating sexually transmitted infections (STI), absence visible symptoms. Conclusion indicate strong need invest more efforts improve education current national promote screen through, example, establishing correct perceptions In addition, intervention should address social environment order prevent being communicated