Assessing the role of training in improving knowledge of cervical cancer and screening competency among rural healthcare workers

Abstract

Background: Low- and middle-income countries face a high cervical cancer burden but have limited preventive programs, such as cervical screening, often restricted to tertiary hospitals with trained staff. This study evaluated the cervical cancer knowledge of rural healthcare workers in a northeastern Nigerian community and the impact of training on their screening skills. Methodology: Eighteen female community health extension workers and women’s health providers were trained on cervical cancer screening, with a focus on risk factors, prevention, and sample collection. Cervical smear preparation was also demonstrated. Pre- and post-training questionnaires assessed changes in knowledge. Smears were examined for adequacy. Data were analyzed using SPSS with significance at p <0.05. Results: Most (61.1%) participants had good pretest knowledge, identified HPV as a cause, and recognized risk factors like sexual activity and HIV infection, symptoms like abnormal vaginal discharge and bleeding, and Pap smear as an effective screening method. Post-training, 88.9% (16/18) showed significant improvement in knowledge (p = 0.026). Knowledge was independent of professional cadre (p = 0.784). Cytology smears were adequate in 86.7%. Conclusion: Training CHWs can empower them to support cervical screening in resource-limited communities, thereby strengthening screening coverage.