FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH HUSBANDS’ SUPPORT FOR CERVICAL CANCER EARLY DETECTION: AN ANALYSIS OF DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ATTITUDES

Abstract

Cervical cancer is a serious public health problem. Early detection through Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) or Pap smear is important for identifying precancerous lesions and cervical cancer at an early stage. Husband’s support plays an important role in women’s participation in screening. However, studies examining factors associated with husband’s support, particularly those simultaneously assessing demographic characteristics, knowledge, and attitudes in the context of primary health care in Indonesia, remain limited. This study aimed to analyze factors associated with husband’s support for cervical cancer early detection. An analytic observational study with a cross-sectional design was conducted among 150 husbands in the working area of Jagir Public Health Center using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the Chi-square test and Prevalence Ratio (PR). Demographic factors were not significantly associated with husband’s support (p > 0.05). Knowledge and attitudes were significantly associated with husband’s support (p < 0.001). Husbands with good knowledge were twice as likely to provide support compared with those with poor knowledge (PR = 2.0; 95% CI: 1.41–2.84). Positive attitudes showed the strongest association with husband’s support (PR = 7.1; 95% CI: 3.67–13.76). Knowledge and attitudes were significantly associated with husband’s support for cervical cancer early detection. Health workers should strengthen education on cervical cancer early detection by involving husbands through a family-based approach to support women’s participation in screening.