Knowledge, awareness, and attitudes of female sex workers toward HPV infection, cervical cancer, and cervical smears in Thailand
Received 4 June 2009; received in revised form 29 June 2009; accepted 20 July 2009. published online 01 September 2009.
Abstract
Objective
To determine the knowledge, attitudes, and awareness of female sex workers (FSWs) regarding cervical cancer and its prevention in Thailand.
Method
From August through November 2008, 402 consecutive FSWs were recruited for interviews.
Results
The mean knowledge score was 4.9 (maximum possible, 15; range, 0–14). Approximately 60% of the FSWs had knowledge scores less than 5. Low education and a lack of health insurance were significant independent predictors of low knowledge scores (adjusted odds ratios, 3.17 and 1.97, respectively). More than half of the FSWs were unaware of being at higher risk for HPV infection or of the possible consequences of HPV infection. The negative attitude regarding cervical screening was caused by the fear of abnormal results (27.9%), experiencing pain (18.4%), and embarrassment (14.7%).
Conclusion
The knowledge and awareness of HPV infection, cervical cancer, and utility of cervical smears is low among FSWs in Thailand. Designing and implementing effective interventions is crucial and merits attention in future research.
aDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
bFaculty of Nursing, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
cSexually Transmitted Infection Centre, Region 10, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Corresponding author. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand. Tel.: +66 53 945552 5; fax: +66 53 946112.
ABSTRACT