Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Regarding Pap smear Among Medical Workers in Sulaimani City/ Iraq

Background
One of the most prevalent malignancies in women worldwide is cervical cancer. It is essential to make sure a sizable portion of the target population is routinely checked since Pap smears, a medical screening technique, can detect women with pre-cancerous lesions in the asymptomatic population before they reach the invasive stage.
This study aims to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices of medical workers regarding Pap smear test, and roll out the barriers to performing Pap smear test.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study was conducted with a convenient sampling of 300 participants among medical staff in Shar Hospital, Teaching Hospital, Dr. Jamal Hospital, Smart Health Tower, Anwar Sheikh Medical Center, Harem, and Asia Hospitals in Sulaimani, Kurdistan region, Iraq, from November 1, 2023, to April 1, 2024.
Results
Out of 300 participants, only 21.7% scored good knowledge, with the majority (62.3%) having a poor knowledge score. Most participants had a positive attitude toward Pap smear screening and recognized its role in the early detection of cervical cancer. However, regular screening practice was low. There was a statistically significant correlation between education level and knowledge score. Among participants who have not undergone a Pap smear, the main reported barrier was inadequate knowledge, in addition to embarrassment, fear of pain, fear of positive results, and husband’s disapproval.
Conclusion
The respondents showed inadequate knowledge and low screening practice regarding Pap smear testing, despite generally positive attitudes. Educational level was significantly associated with knowledge. Strengthening health education initiatives and utilizing media platforms are essential to improve awareness. Healthcare professionals should actively promote cervical cancer screening, and efforts should be made to improve access to affordable and confidential services.