Knowledge, attitudes and practices among Kazakhstan’s physicians towards cervical cancer and Human Papilloma Virus

Abstract

Cervical cancer is a high burden disease worldwide that often results from the infection by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). It is one of the most preventable cancers, as vaccines against HPV that can prevent more than 90% of infections do exist. Kazakhstan has introduced a free nationwide cervical cancer screening program in 2008; however, cervical cancer remains as the 2nd most common female cancer in the country till this day. There are plans for provision of free HPV vaccine to teenage girls in the nearest future. Uptake of cervical cancer screening and vaccine are highly dependent on support of healthcare workers and their work with the general population. Knowledge, attitude and practices of physicians in Kazakhstan on the topics of cervical cancer and HPV are largely unknown.