Factors influencing the decision to undergo cervical cancer screening tests (Pap Smear and HPV-DNA testing) in women aged 30–65: The role of HPV knowledge, cancer screening perception, health anxiety, and behaviors for protection against sexually transmitted diseases

This study investigates factors influencing cervical cancer screening participation among Turkish women aged 30–65, focusing on human papillomavirus (HPV) knowledge, cancer screening perception, health anxiety, and behaviors protecting against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Among 1,755 participants, the screening rate was 56.2%, with higher participation associated with increased health anxiety, history of STDs, chronic diseases, greater HPV knowledge, positive STD prevention behaviors, older age, marital status (married or divorced), light physical activity, healthier dietary habits, and residence in the Mediterranean region. The findings suggest that demographic, psychological, and health-related factors collectively affect screening decisions, highlighting the need for targeted public health interventions that enhance HPV awareness, address health anxiety, promote STD prevention, and consider regional and socio-cultural differences. Limitations include the cross-sectional design and potential biases from self-reported data, while strengths involve a large, geographically diverse sample and validated measurement scales.