KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE CONCERNING CERVICAL CANCER SCREENING AMONG GIRLS IN COMMAND SECONDARY SCHOOL, ABAKPA NIKE, ENUGU STATE
This study examined the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding cervical cancer screening and HPV vaccination among female students in Command Secondary School. The study also assessed the relationship between knowledge, attitude, and preventive intentions. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and data were collected from 165 respondents using a structured questionnaire. The respondents were mainly adolescents aged 15–17 years, with varying class levels and religious backgrounds. Findings showed that most students had heard of cervical cancer and understood that early detection improves outcomes, but knowledge of HPV as the cause of cervical cancer and awareness of HPV vaccination were only moderate. Although the majority of respondents held positive attitudes toward cervical cancer prevention, screening, and HPV vaccination, actual preventive practices were very low. Only a few respondents had ever undergone screening, and vaccination coverage was limited. Major barriers to screening included fear, lack of awareness, feeling too young, and not knowing where to go. Chi-square analysis revealed significant relationships between knowledge and attitude, knowledge and intention to screen, and attitude and willingness to vaccinate. The study concluded that improved health education and school-based interventions are needed to increase awareness and promote positive preventive behavior among adolescent girls.