Factors explaining men's intentions to support their partner's participation in cervical cancer screening

Background: Cervical cancer is a significant global health problem, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Many women in these regions face opposition from male partners regarding cervical cancer screening. This study investigated the social, cultural, and psychological factors influencing Indian men's willingness to support their partners' participation in cervical cancer screening. Methods: A survey of 500 sexually active Indian men measured their knowledge of cervical cancer and screening, awareness of screening options, attitudes towards screening, perceived barriers to screening, and health literacy. Regression analysis determined which factors predicted their intention to support their wives' screening. Results: Most participants demonstrated poor knowledge and awareness of cervical cancer and screening, held negative attitudes towards screening, and perceived several structural barriers. Attitude towards screening and routine participation in general health screenings significantly predicted their intention to support their wives' screening. Education moderated the association between knowledge/awareness and the intention to support screening. Conclusion: Programs to encourage male support for wives' cervical cancer screening should focus on improving attitudes towards screening, educating about cervical cancer and screening procedures, and reducing perceived barriers.

Jyoshma Preema Dsouza, Stephan Van den Broucke, Sanjay Pattanshetty, William Dhoore