Introduction:

Cervical cytology is the main tool for the detection and treatment of cervical cancer. Some studies carried out in the urban population have associated the realization and adherence with knowledge, attitudes and favorable practices of women with respect to this test.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to determine the level of knowledge, attitudes and practices towards cervical cytology in women of childbearing age in a rural Peruvian province.

Material and Methods:

A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in a population of approximately 3148 women of childbearing age, a representative sample was obtained. An anonymous, validated, directed survey was used; it was applied by trained health personnel working in health centers of the primary care level in the districts of the province of Bolívar, La Libertad.

Results:

A total of 400 surveys were carried out. The results showed that 80 % of the women surveyed had high and intermediate levels of knowledge, 70 % had a favorable attitude, while 44 % reported correct practices related to the cervical cytology test. The high and intermediate levels of knowledge were associated with age over 30 years (p: 0.02), married marital status (p: 0.05), the highest level of instruction (p: 0.00) and the use of contraceptive methods (p: 0.01); no relationship was found with the age of onset of sexual intercourse (p: 0.98).

Conclusions:

There is a high level of knowledge, attitudes and correct practices towards cervical cytology in the rural population of the province of Bolívar, but a low adherence to it.

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