Current Maternal Awareness, Knowledge, and Practices on Cervical Cancer Prevention

Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among women worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, despite being largely preventable through screening and HPV vaccination. This review explores maternal awareness, knowledge, and practices related to cervical cancer prevention, emphasizing their influence on early detection and health-seeking behaviors. Studies reveal that awareness levels remain low globally, especially among rural and socioeconomically disadvantaged women. Education, media exposure, and access to healthcare significantly enhance awareness and screening uptake. However, barriers such as cultural stigma, fear, limited resources, and systemic challenges persist. Healthcare providers play a pivotal role in influencing women’s preventive behaviors, yet their own knowledge gaps often hinder effective counseling. Integrating cervical cancer education into maternal and child health services presents an effective strategy to reach women of reproductive age. Global initiatives, including WHO’s “90–70–90” strategy, highlight the importance of coordinated national programs combining vaccination, screening, and treatment. The review concludes that empowering mothers through education and accessible healthcare interventions can create a generational impact, improving preventive practices and reducing cervical cancer burden globally. Strengthening awareness campaigns, healthcare training, and policy-level integration is crucial for sustainable progress toward elimination. .