Using the health belief model to assess beliefs and behaviors regarding cervical cancer screening among Saudi women: a cross-sectional observational study

摘要

BackgroundCervical cancer in Saudi Arabia is ranked as the third most frequent gynecological cancer among women. The Pap smear test is a screening test that can be used as a primary prevention tool for cervical cancer, and prophylactic vaccination against HPV is also considered to be a factor in decreasing the prevalence of the disease. This study aimed to assess women’s beliefs about cervical cancer and the Pap smear test. In addition, the relationship between cervical cancer and the social and demographic characteristics was also evaluated.