A importância de ações educativas para prevenção do câncer de colo uterino no contexto da Estratégia Saúde da Família

Abstract

This study aimed to carry out general overview of the scientific production on the theme of preventing cervical cancer with emphasis on educational and nursing care. The bibliographic research was conducted in the databases of the Virtual Health Library (LILACS, MEDLINE, SciELO). We expanded this review, looking for references considered relevant to the proposed theme, the databases of the Ministry of Health and National Cancer Institute. Was also carried out a manual search of bibliographic material in texts, books and pamphlets dealing with the subject being studied. The period used was 2000 to 2010. The results showed that women are often unaware of the risk factors involved in cervical cancer, as well as ignorant knowledge related to health education. According to the literature review health services should advise on the importance of performing periodic preventive screening, in order to reduce morbidity and mortality in the population at risk. Health education by trained nurses is essential for the prevention of cervical cancer. The review also pointed to some reasons that women not perform Pap smears among them are: lack of knowledge about cervical cancer, the technique and the importance of screening, fear in the exam, fear of encountering a result positive for cancer, sense of shame and embarrassment. Investments are needed in educational activities that bring a humane practice by health professionals resulting in impact on the understanding and comprehension of women about the need for prevention.