Factors associated with non-adherence to the cervical oncotic pap smear exam in primary care

Abstract

Objective: Identify factors that lead women not to adhere to the preventive exam, which can be performed in primary health care. Literature review: Adherence to cervical cancer prevention brings together a number of related factors. Regarding the sociodemographic condition, better economic power, having easy access to outpatient care are important tools, including a history of cancer in the family, knowledge about the cancer and its consequences stand out as the main factors for women to adhere to the preventive exam. The low adherence can be seen by the lack of understanding about the subject, due to the low level of education. Shame is also one of the main reasons for not taking the exam, as the taboo on female sexuality is still very present in Brazil. Screening done by Pap smears can reduce the rate of cervical cancer by 80%, however it was shown that many women do not adhere to Pap smears because they do not present suggestive symptoms, since the idea of ​​care services above activities is still very strong. preventive measures. Final considerations: The studies found showed that low adherence to Pap smears is related to the lack of information and socioeconomic conditions of women.