Publication Date
5-2025
Date of Final Oral Examination (Defense)
3-11-2025
Type of Culminating Activity
Thesis
Degree Title
Master of Public Health
Department
Community and Environmental Health
Supervisory Committee Chair
Ellen Schafer, Ph.D.
Supervisory Committee Member
Anne Abbott, Ph.D.
Supervisory Committee Member
Vinita Sharma, Ph.D.
Abstract
Background: Persistent Human Papillomavirus infection of the cervix causes cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide and it is the leading cause of cancer-related death among Nepalese women. It is preventable through primary prevention (vaccination) and secondary prevention (screening). Individuals’ vaccination and prevention behaviors are thought to be determined, in part, by knowledge and attitude regarding cervical cancer and prevention behavior. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess cervical cancer-related preventive behaviors and associated barriers and facilitators among Nepali Tamang women residing in Nuwakot, Nepal.
Methods: Using a cross-sectional design and convenience sample, data were collected by visiting the homes of Tamang women. In the Kakani, Likhu, and Shivapuri municipalities, we interviewed 251 women who spoke and understood Nepali and could provide verbal consent. Descriptive statistics were used to describe participants and regression models were created to assess relationships between participant characteristics and determinants of cervical cancer prevention behavior.
Results: Among the 251 participants, data from 250 was utilized. On average, participants were 37 years old, married at 17, and had their first child at almost 19. Most participants knew about cervical cancer, whereas less than half knew about the cervix and uterus. Generally, participants had a low level of cervical cancer knowledge and a positive attitude toward prevention behaviors. Only 18% of participants had ever been screened for cervical cancer, and of those, only 66.7% had been screened once in the last five years. Participants who knew what cervical cancer is or knew at least one risk factor) had higher odds of getting cervical cancer screening. The most common barriers to cervical cancer screening were “no symptoms," “nothing had happened,” “do not know about prevention,” and “no health care services.”
Discussion: Tamang women of Nuwakot, Nepal had low awareness about cervical cancer and inadequate cervical cancer screening practices. However, women tended toward a positive attitude toward screening and vaccination. Therefore, there is a need for awareness programs addressing cervical cancer, and its primary and secondary prevention methods.
DOI
10.18122/td.2362.boisestate
Recommended Citation
Bhetwal, Babita, "Cervical Cancer and Its Preventive Behavior Among Tamang Women Residing in Nuwakot, Nepal" (2025). Boise State University Theses and Dissertations. 2362.
10.18122/td.2362.boisestate