“What If It’s Too Late?”: Unpacking Fear and Reluctance towards Cervical Cancer Screening among Women in Sarawak

Abstract

Cervical cancer remains a preventable yet under-prioritised health issue, as fear often prevents women from participating in regular screening and preventive care. This study investigates the factors contributing to this reluctance. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 women aged 20 to 70. The interview transcripts were analysed using the Extended Parallel Process Model (EPPM). A pattern of avoidance behaviours emerged, including defensive strategies to downplay risks and avoid confronting the possibility of illness. Many women exhibited emotional denial, believing they were not at risk due to the absence of symptoms or family history. Others relied on previous actions, such as vaccination or healthy habits, to rationalise delaying further preventive measures. Limited and surface-level understanding of cervical cancer exacerbated these behaviours, as basic awareness did not lead to meaningful action. This avoidance delays early detection and increases the risk of poor outcomes. However, the study also highlighted instances where women employed proactive strategies, demonstrating the potential for improvement. In order to break this cycle of disengagement, public health campaigns must shift the narrative, focusing on education that empowers women to take preventive action while addressing the fears and misconceptions that hinder participation.