Abstract

This study explored the psychosocial predictors affecting rural women to uptake cervical cancer screening through Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) in Goromonzi District. The aim of the study was to investigate the deeper interpersonal and intrapersonal factors that deter or stimulate rural women to uptake the Cervical Cancer Screening. Health Belief Model and Social Ecological Model formed the conceptual framework of the study. The researcher used a qualitative research approach and a case study. Convenience sampling was used to select a sample of 15 participants. Targeted were women aged 25 - 50. Data was collected using self-administered open-ended questionnaires and semi structured in-depth interviews which were analyzed using thematic analysis. The researcher observed research ethics. Findings revealed that rural women are not undergoing cervical cancer screening due to cancer fatalism, negative perceptions about screening procedures, fear of negative sexual evaluation, beliefs that cancer is spiritual and is caused by evil spirits, lack of knowledge about Cervical Cancer and Cervical Cancer Screening. Findings also revealed that having family member affected by Cervical Cancer, support and influence from other community members who screened before, knowledge about Cervical Cancer and Cervical Cancer Screening, perceived severity of Cervical Cancer and perceived susceptibility to Cervical Cancer positively affect the women’s behavior to uptake Cervical Cancer Screening. The research recommended that there was need for the government, non-governmental organizations, churches and the community to create conducive environment which facilitates rural women to develop health seeking behavior which ultimately results in the increase of uptake of cervical cancer screening services.