Determinants of Cervical Cancer Screening Utilization Among Women in Bomet County, Kenya

Abstract

This study examined the determinants influencing the utilization of cervical cancer screening services in Bomet County, Kenya. This cross-sectional study collected data from 217 participants aged 21–49 years using structured questionnaires. We analyzed the data using SPSS version 27 with descriptive and inferential statistics at a 95% confidence level. The findings showed cervical cancer screening uptake of 35%, with 76 of 217 participants reporting having undergone screening. Most participants were aged 25–34 years and had attained primary or secondary education. Screening utilization was higher among participants aged 30–39 years than among those aged 21–29 years. Self-rated knowledge of the recommended screening frequency was significantly associated with screening utilization in the adjusted model (p ≤ .002). Several patient-related and health system factors independently influenced screening uptake. Perceived ease of access to screening facilities, reasonable waiting times, affordability of services, and adequate information from healthcare workers were positively associated with screening uptake (p < .001). In contrast, embarrassment when discussing screening and greater distance to the nearest health facility were significantly associated with lower likelihood of screening utilization (p < .05). The study concludes that both patient-perceived and health system factors influence cervical cancer screening utilization in Bomet County. It recommends implementing behavior change interventions guided by the Health Belief Model, strengthening pre- and post-screening counseling services, integrating screening into other healthcare services, and promoting accessible, respectful, private, and patient-centered care environments.