Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Turkish Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care, cilt.18, sa.1, ss.24-33, 2024 (Hakemli Dergi)
Objective: This study aims to explore the intention of women visiting primary health care centers in Yozgat province to undergo HPV
testing. Additionally, the relationship between health locus of control, various demographic factors, and intention for HPV testing has been
examined to raise awareness about early detection and treatment of cervical cancer among women.
Methods: The study was conducted between May and July 2023 with 343 women who visited family health centers in Yozgat city center.
A survey was used for data collected through face-to-face interviews. The survey consists of a health locus of control scale and various
questions that help identify participants. Descriptive statistical tests were used to describe the participants' demographic characteristics, and
the chi-square test was employed to analyze relationships and differences. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.
Results: Of the participating women, 41% were in the age range of 36-45, 40% had completed middle school, 44% had an above-average
economic status, 85% were married, and 65% were homemakers. The proportion of those who had previously undergone any cancer
screening test was 45%, 78% had heard of HPV testing, 63% were aware that HPV testing was free, and 46% expressed an intention to
undergo HPV testing. Regarding health locus of control, 33% exhibited internal control, 15% exhibited chance control, and 52% exhibited
powerful others control.
Conclusion: The analysis conducted to understand the relationship between intention to undergo HPV testing and various demographic
factors revealed that education, economic status, marital status, age, occupation, family history of cancer, and awareness of free HPV testing
significantly influenced the intention to undergo HPV testing. Additionally, participants' health locus of control, having children, health
status, and presence of chronic diseases were found to be unrelated to the intention for HPV testing.
Keywords: Human Papillomavirus DNA tests, Women's health, Cancer screening