Evaluation of the attitudes of family health personnel towards the early diagnosis of cervical cancer and examination of influencing factors

AIM: This study aimed to examine the attitudes towards the early diagnosis of cervical cancer, the level of theoretical knowledge, and the relationship of these attitudes with professional and sociodemographic characteristics among family health workers working in Sakarya province. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted using an online survey method between February 1 and March 31, 2025. The study included 209 family health workers. A sociodemographic and knowledge form developed by the researcher and the Attitude Scale for Early Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer (SKETTÖ) were used as data collection tools. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, and multiple response analysis RESULTS: The participants' knowledge levels on fundamental topics, such as the preventability of cervical cancer through vaccination and the role of HPV in its etiology, were found to be high. However, knowledge gaps were identified in specific areas, such as screening frequency and program exit criteria. The mean total score of the Cervical Cancer Early Diagnosis Attitude Scale was 104.45 ± 9.25. Midwives' sensitivity sub-scale scores were significantly higher than those of nurses. Moreover, it was determined that attitude scores showed a statistically significant increase with advanced age, professional experience of more than five years, and smoking. CONCLUSİON: Family health workers' knowledge on cervical cancer early diagnosis is high but not fully reflected in their attitudes and practices, with professional role, age, experience, and personal health behaviors being key influencing factors. Comprehensive, role-specific training programs that bridge this knowledge-attitude gap are therefore recommended. Keywords: Attitude, cervical cancer, early diagnosis, family health worker, HPV.