COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF MEDICAL LITERACY LEVELS AND CERVICAL CANCER RISK FACTORS AMONG WOMEN IN THE REPUBLIC OF KARAKALPAKSTAN

Аннотация

Objective: To conduct a comparative analysis of the level of medical literacy regarding cervical cancer (CC) and to identify the prevalence of its main risk factors among women living in different districts of the Republic of Karakalpakstan. Methods: A cross- sectional anonymous survey was conducted among 1,500 women aged 25-49. A specially designed questionnaire was used to assess awareness of CC, human papillomavirus (HPV), screening methods (Pap test, HPV test), HPV vaccination, and key risk factors (smoking, early sexual debut, number of partners). Statistical analysis was performed to compare data between urban (Nukus city) and rural populations. Results: The study revealed a generally low level of medical literacy on CC issues. Only 35% of respondents were aware of the link between HPV and CC. Women in rural areas demonstrated significantly lower awareness compared to urban residents (p < 0.001). A high prevalence of risk factors was identified: 28% of respondents were smokers, and 45% reported an early sexual debut (before age 18). A significant negative correlation was found between the level of medical literacy and the presence of behavioral risk factors. Conclusion: There is a critical need to increase medical literacy about cervical cancer and its prevention among women in Karakalpaikstan, with a particular focus on rural areas. The findings justify the need for targeted educational programs and the development of accessible screening services to reduce theincidence and mortality ofcervical cancer inthe region. Keywords:cervical cancer, HPV, medical literacy, health awareness, risk factors, screening, Pap test,Karakalpakstan, women's health. СРАВНИТЕЛЬНЫЙ АНАЛИЗУРОВНЯМЕДИЦИНСКОЙГРАМОТНОСТИИ ФАКТОРОВ РИСКАРАКАШЕЙКИ МАТКИ СРЕДИЖЕНЩИН РЕСПУБЛИКИ КАРАКАЛПАКСТАН БазароваСерегул Калмурзаевна Кафедра акушерства,гинекологииинеонатологии Медицинский институт Каракалпакстана