Sexually transmitted infections and cervical cancer: Knowledge and prevention awareness among female university students in Japan

Aim To examine the possible association among knowledge regarding cervical cancer, its relationship with STIs and prevention awareness of STIs of female aged 20 years or older who were recommended regular screening for cervical cancer. Design A cross-sectional study using anonymous self-administered questionnaires. Method The subjects were 3rd- and 4th-year female university students. The association among knowledge about cervical cancer, cervical cancer screening behaviours and sexually transmitted diseases prevention behaviour awareness scale on university students (STDASUS) scores were examined using the Mann-Whitney U test and the chi-squared test. The data collection period was June-August, 2018. Results Two hundred sixty-one questionnaires were analysed as valid responses. The study indicated a possible association between understanding that cervical cancer occurs due to a viral infection and that the virus is spread through sexual intercourse and awareness of STI prevention behaviours. Appropriate education concerning the characteristics of cervical cancer, its correlation with STIs and the importance of the screening is essential.