Abstract:
Background: Cervical cancer is one of the most treatable cancers when detected early and
managed. Unfortunately, the mortality rate is projected to surge in Nigeria. Objective: This
review aims to provide updated information on challenges and strategies for improving
cervical cancer screening in Nigeria. Methods: In this review, scientific papers published
in electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar were retrieved
using search themes such as “cervical cancer”, “risk factors”, and “preventive methods”
were examined. Results: The true prevalence of cervical cancer is underestimate in Nigeria
because most cases of cervical cancer are not documented. Lack of awareness, cultural
barriers, poor infrastructure, unfavorable perception, shortage of supplies, lack of partner
involvement, provider-related factors, poor monitoring, and evaluation system were the
major barriers that hinder cervical cancer screening service in Nigeria. Conclusion: Lack
of awareness, unfavorable perception, problems with health system structure and process,
and cultural conditions were major barriers in Nigeria. Hence, packages of intervention
is necessary create awareness, provide essential equipment, increase access to health
facilities, and strengthening follow up system is indispensable for service improvement by
the government and non-governmental organizations, world health organization inclusive.
