Knowledge, perception of HIV symptom severity and cervical cancer screening behaviour among women living with HIV in China

Objective This study aimed to examine the previous uptake of cervical cancer screening and intention to be screened and its associated factors among women living with HIV in China. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 213 women living with HIV to collect information about cervical cancer screening behaviour, demographics, knowledge about cervical cancer and screening, and perception of HIV symptom severity. Results Seventy-eight women living with HIV (36.6%) had undergone cervical cancer screening, and 83 (61.5%) of the nonscreened women had the intention to be screened in the future. Using multivariate analysis, women who had more knowledge about cervical cancer screening (OR = 2.373, 95% CI = 1.593–3.534, p = 0.000) and had at least one nongynecological symptom (OR = 0.446, 95% CI = 0.204–0.978, p = 0.044) were more likely to have received screening previously. Conclusion This study emphasised that knowledge, as a salient factor, was crucial to promoting cervical cancer screening behaviour among women living with HIV. Effective measures should be taken to promote the knowledge about cervical cancer prevention. A new healthcare model, including preventive healthcare in addition to HIV/AIDS care, may be needed to address the complex needs of women living with HIV in China.