Shining a Light on Women’s Health: The Relationship Between Gynecological Cancer Awareness and Health Literacy

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between gynecological cancer awareness and health literacy levels among married women aged 20-65 and to determine the influencing factors.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between June and August 2023 at a Family Health Center (FHC) in a province within the Eastern Anatolia region of Turkey. The study included 1500 women who visited the FHC during the study period and met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Random sampling was employed to select women for the sample. In the collection of study data, the “Gynecological Cancer Awareness Scale” and the “Health Literacy Scale-Short Form” were used. Data were analyzed with the independent sample t-test, 1-way analysis of variance test, Pearson correlation analysis, and multiple linear regression analysis. Data collection involved face-to-face interviews during women’s visits to the FHC.

Results: Participants’ mean age was 32.74 ± 9.46 years. Smoking habits and having a family member diagnosed with cancer negatively influenced awareness of gynecological cancer. Hearing about the Pap smear test, health literacy levels, and advanced age positively influenced awareness of gynecological cancer.

Conclusion: Health literacy was positively related to gynecological cancer awareness. Advanced age increased awareness. Never smoking and knowing about Pap smear tests positively impacted awareness. Relatives with cancer reduced awareness

Cite this article as: Başaran F, Duru P. Shining a light on women’s health: the relationship between gynecological cancer awareness and health literacy. Arch Health Sci Res. 2024;11(1):42-48.