Vol. 4, Issue 9 (2015)

Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was done with 60 women from rural places. This study was conducted at the Department of Community Medicine, Siddhartha Government Medical College, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India from October 2014 to September 2015. A structured questionnaire and clinical screening methods were used to find out how common cervical cancer is. Random picking was used to find people between the ages of 25 and 65 to take part. People's medical background, demographic information, and ways of life were all gathered, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques were used to do an HPV test. Statistical analysis, such as chi-square and logistic regression, was used to find significant links between risk factors and the rate of cervical cancer.

Results: Nine out of sixty patients, or fifteen percent, had cervical cancer, according to the study. Among the most notable risk factors, we found HPV infection (p<0.01), beginning sexual activity at a young age (mean age: 17 years), having three or more pregnancies (65 percent of cases), and being from a poor socio-economic position (70 percent of cases, income < $200 per month). Among those who were impacted, not only was HPV vaccination low at 10%, but routine screening was also nonexistent (80% of people never had a Pap smear). The critical necessity for education and prevention efforts is underscored by the statistical evidence that strongly correlates these risk factors with cervical cancer.

Conclusion: Numerous socioeconomic and lifestyle variables contribute to the high frequency of cervical cancer, which continues to be a major burden in rural areas. In order to decrease mortality and morbidity, it is crucial to raise awareness, implement frequent screening programs, and launch HPV vaccination campaigns. Underprivileged communities need better access to preventative measures and early detection services, and this is a priority for both healthcare practitioners and policymakers.