Preventive practices and risk factors for cervical cancer among university teachers

Abstract

This is a descriptive study with a quantitative approach that aims to outline the profile of female teachers from the Federal University of Sergipe with regards to age, marital status, academic qualification and kind of health assistance. It also aims to check if the teachers have the Pap test as a preventive practice for cervical cancer and to identify the risk factors for this type of cancer. The sample was composed by 87 teachers and data were collected from October to November, 2007. Results show that: most women have 23 to 42 years old (70.1%); 58.6% of the participants are married or have a stable relationship with their partners; 54.1% have a master or doctor degree. Most participants have health insurance (87.3%) and go to health services to have the Pap smear (94.3%). Referred reasons not to do the Pap test were: self-indulgence, lack of time, lack of good health and discomfort. The main identified risk factors for cervical cancer were: use of contraceptive pills (86.5%), non use of condoms (56.8%) and multiple sexual partners (23.0%). We conclude that the participants take proper care regarding cervical cancer prevention although they present important risk factors for the disease.