Knowledge and attitude to cervical cancer screening among women in Maiduguri, Nigeria.

Five hundred women were studied to determine their knowledge of cervical cancer. Less than 10% of the women were aware of the disease or its symptoms. Even fewer were aware of cytological screening, the good results obtained in the premalignant stage and early invasive stages of the disease. Simple explanation showed a good recall at 4-6 weeks. At that time women would accept screening and understood its importance. This study shows clearly that education must precede a screening programme if it is to succeed.