Using Health Belief Model for Assessing Health Believes about Papsmear in Women Referred to Health Care Centers in Bandar Abbas, Iran

Background: Papsmear is one of the most effective screening tests for the diagnosis of cervical cancer.In this study the health belief of women referred to health care centers in Bandar Abbas, Iran about undergoing Papsmear was assessed on the basis of the Health Belief Model. Methods: This cross- sectional study was done on 363 women (aged 15-49 years old) referred to Bandar Abbas health care centers. For data gathering a valid and reliable questionnaire (Cronbach's alpha= 0.9) including three parts of demographic variables, health behaviors and health belief model was completed through interview. Data analysis was performed through SPSS 17 and using t-test, ANOVA and Pearson correlation coefficient. Results: Mean scores of HBM items were not in a desirable level. Mean score of preceived sensitivity was 11.69 ± 3.85 from 25 and mean score of perceived barriers was 17.32±4.81 from 35 which was in a lower level in comparison with other items. In some Health Belief model items, increase of age and educational level led to higher scores­. There was statistically significant associations between undergoing Papsmear and perceived benefits and barriers scores. Conclusion: Educational programs for improvement of women`s belief and behavior about papsmear based on HBM are suggested. Education and follow up for screening tests such as popsmear in health care centers have important roles in prevention and diagnosis of women’s malignancies, especially cervical cancer. Keywords: Health Belief Model­, Papsmear­, Cervix cancer, Health Belief