WORLD JOURNAL OF ADVANCE
HEALTHCARE RESEARCH

*Ruqaya Qasim Mohammed and Mohammed A. Al-Bayaty

ABSTRACT

Background: Cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women indeveloping countries. Regular screening through Pap smear testing is crucial for early detection and prevention ofdisease progression. Aim: This study aimed to assess the factors influencing the utilization of cervical cancerscreening services among Iraqi women. Method: A cross-sectional study was carried out between April andDecember 2024 in Primary Healthcare Centers within the Aladel Sector of the Al-Karkh Health Directorate. Atotal of 400 women aged 21 to 65 years were recruited using a convenient sampling method. Data were collectedthrough a structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, medical history, knowledge aboutcervical cancer, and perceived barriers to screening. Results: Only 46 women (11.5%) had ever undergone a Papsmear test, all of whom did so at the physician’s request rather than for routine screening. The most commonlyreported barrier was a belief of being healthy in the absence of symptoms (69.2%), followed by lack of physicianrecommendation (18.1%), limited knowledge (8.5%), and fear (2.8%). Just 24% of participants demonstratedadequate knowledge of cervical cancer screening. Utilization of the Pap smear was significantly associated withage, education level, income, presence of chronic illness or cancer, history of gynecological symptoms, and priorPap smear experience. Conclusion: Pap smear screening is underutilized among Iraqi women, primarily due to alack of perceived need, insufficient physician engagement, and limited awareness. Enhancing education andproactive physician recommendation are essential to improve screening uptake.