Knowledge of cervical cancer, risk factors, and barriers to screening among reproductive women in Nigeria

Background: The leading cause of cancer-related fatalities among women worldwide is cervical cancer. Lack of awareness and availability of screening services in Nigeria contribute to the high incidence and fatality rates of cervical cancer. This study assesses the knowledge of cervical cancer, risk factors, and barriers to screening among reproductive women in Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among women of reproductive age in Shao, Moro local government area of Kwara State, Nigeria, to determine their knowledge about cervical cancer, risk factors, and barriers to screening. The data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. Results: A total of 326 women between the ages of 15–50 were included in the study, with the majority being married (56.1%) and having secondary school education (43.6%). Two-hundred seventy-one (83.1%) participants were aware of cervical cancer, but only 39.0% had good knowledge of the disease. Two hundred forty-three (74.5%) women were sexually active and 70% did not use condoms during sexual activity. Only 6.9% of the participants had ever been screened for cervical cancer, with 38.0% being unaware of the screening. The results showed that there was a statistically significant (P<0.001) association between the knowledge of the respondents and selected risk factors for cervical cancer such as sexual activity, previous sexually transmitted infection diagnosis, contraceptive usage, and abnormal bleeding. Conclusion: This study indicates poor knowledge of cervical cancer and that targeted health education campaigns are required to increase awareness and knowledge about cervical cancer among reproductive women in Nigeria. Efforts should also be made to improve access to cervical cancer screening services, especially in rural and underserved area

Synergistic fight against future pandemics: Lessons from previous pandemics

The history of pandemics spans centuries and has had a profound impact on human health, societies, and economies. Pandemics have caused fear, panic, and significant morbidity and mortality rates throughout history. From the Athenian Plague in 430 BC to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, infectious diseases have posed a continuous threat to global health systems. The transition from hunter-gatherer societies to agrarian communities, increased trade and interaction between humans and animals, urbanization, travel rates, and the impact of a growing human population have all contributed to the emergence and spread of infectious diseases. Climate change and changes in land use further affect the transmission of pathogens and the distribution of disease-carrying vectors. Lessons from previous pandemics include the importance of early diagnosis and response, global cooperation and collaboration, strengthened healthcare systems, preparedness planning, public health education and communication, research and development, and adaptability and flexibility in response strategies. These lessons emphasize the significance of timely identification, swift action, sharing information and resources, investing in healthcare infrastructure, preparedness planning, effective communication, research advancements, and the ability to adapt measures as pandemics evolve. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced the need for a collaborative and coordinated global response to future pandemics. Governments, international bodies, healthcare organizations, and individuals could learn from the lessons of the past and apply them effectively to combat and mitigate the impact of future outbreaks. By prioritizing all the recommendations stated, the world can synergistically protect public health and minimize the devastating consequences of pandemics