Perception of cervical cancer risk and screening behavior: a literature review.

PURPOSE

This review examines women's risk perception of cervical cancer, the factors influencing this perception, and the relationship between risk perception of cervical cancer and screening behavior.

METHODS

Integrative literature review method was used.

FINDINGS

The search procedure resulted in the identification of 42 studies, including 1 literature review and 41 primary studies. Trends and discrepancies in the literature are presented with interpretations and recommendations.

CONCLUSION

Existing theories of health behavior appear inadequate for understanding screening behavior, and further studies are recommended to enrich the knowledge base of nursing diagnoses in knowledge deficit and health-seeking behavior.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Efforts would be made to improve nurses' understanding of risk perception of cervical cancer within specific cultural context.