1.1 Introduction
Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are benign smooth muscle tumors of the uterus that commonly affect women of childbearing age. These tumors are a significant public health concern due to their high prevalence and the potential for substantial morbidity. It is estimated that up to 70-80% of women will develop fibroids by the age of 50, with higher prevalence rates observed in African American women compared to other racial groups (Stewart, 2015). Despite their common occurrence, the knowledge, perception, and attitudes towards uterine fibroids among women of childbearing age remain varied and often inadequate. This lack of awareness can lead to delayed diagnosis, suboptimal management, and increased anxiety among affected individuals. Understanding women's knowledge and attitudes towards uterine fibroids is crucial for developing effective educational programs and improving health outcomes.
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Research hypothesis and questions, Limitation of the study and Definition of terms.
1.2 Background of Study
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, advancements in surgical techniques, particularly the development of the hysterectomy, provided a definitive treatment option for fibroids, though this procedure was often reserved for severe cases due to its high risk (Wallach & Vlahos, 2004). During this period, the perception of fibroids was largely clinical, focusing on physical symptoms and surgical outcomes, with little consideration given to women's knowledge and attitudes toward the condition.
The mid-20th century marked a significant shift as medical advancements improved the diagnosis and treatment of fibroids. The introduction of less invasive diagnostic tools, such as ultrasound imaging in the 1950s, allowed for earlier and more accurate detection of fibroids (Stewart, 2015). Concurrently, the development of pharmaceutical treatments, including hormonal therapies, provided alternative options to surgery, broadening the scope of fibroid management.
In recent decades, the recognition of disparities in fibroid prevalence and outcomes among different racial and ethnic groups has further underscored the need for culturally sensitive education and intervention strategies. Research has consistently shown that African American women are more likely to develop fibroids at a younger age and with more severe symptoms compared to other racial groups (Baird et al., 2003). This has led to a growing body of literature examining the specific knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes of women from diverse backgrounds towards fibroids.
Uterine fibroids are a major gynecological condition affecting women of reproductive age, characterized by benign tumors that arise from the smooth muscle layer of the uterus. They are the most common pelvic tumors in women and can lead to a variety of symptoms, including heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and reproductive issues such as infertility and recurrent miscarriages (Bulun, 2013). The impact of fibroids on a woman's quality of life can be profound, necessitating effective management strategies and timely intervention.
According to Baird et al., (2003), epidemiological studies reveal that the prevalence of uterine fibroids varies widely across different populations, with African American women being disproportionately affected. They tend to develop fibroids at a younger age and are more likely to experience severe symptoms compared to their Caucasian counterparts (Baird et al., 2003). This disparity underscores the importance of culturally sensitive health education and interventions tailored to diverse groups.
Despite the high prevalence and significant health burden of uterine fibroids, awareness and understanding of the condition among women remain limited. A study by Marsh et al. (2018) highlighted that many women possess insufficient knowledge about fibroids, including their causes, symptoms, and treatment options. This lack of awareness can lead to delays in seeking medical care, misdiagnosis, and suboptimal treatment outcomes (Marsh et al. 2018). Moreover, the perception and attitudes towards uterine fibroids are influenced by various factors, including cultural beliefs, social stigmas, and personal experiences (Okeke et al., 2011). Such perceptions can hinder effective communication between patients and healthcare providers, complicating the management of the condition.
Therefore, in Case Study where the research was carried out, the activities that was conducted is to assess the Knowledge, Perception and Attitude towards Uterine Fibroid among Women of Child Bearing Age.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that many women possess limited knowledge about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for uterine fibroids. Studies indicate that misconceptions about the nature of fibroids, such as the belief that they invariably lead to cancer or infertility, are widespread (Marsh et al., 2018). This misinformation can result in unnecessary anxiety and stress, as well as delays in seeking appropriate medical care. Additionally, there are notable disparities in the awareness and management of uterine fibroids among different racial and ethnic groups. African American women, in particular, are more likely to develop fibroids at a younger age and experience more severe symptoms, yet they often have less access to accurate information and effective treatment options (Baird et al., 2003).
Furthermore, the symptoms of uterine fibroids, such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and reproductive complications, can significantly affect a woman's quality of life. The lack of awareness and understanding exacerbates these effects, as women may not recognize the symptoms or understand the potential severity of their condition. Furthermore, the psychological burden, including anxiety and depression associated with fibroids, is often overlooked (Stewart, 2015). Hence, it is against this backdrop that this study aims to assess the knowledge, perception and attitude towards uterine fibroid among women of child bearing age.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of the study is to assess the knowledge, perception and attitude towards uterine fibroid among women of child bearing age. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To explore obstacles that hinder women from seeking timely medical intervention and adhering to treatment plans;
- To determine the barriers that prevents women from acquiring accurate information about uterine fibroids;
- To identify specific areas where knowledge is lacking or misconceptions are prevalent in the area under study;
- To examine the attitudes of women towards seeking medical help for symptoms related to uterine fibroids; and
- To assess the extent of knowledge women of childbearing age have about uterine fibroids, including their causes, symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options.
1.5 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- What are the obstacles that hinder women from seeking timely medical intervention and adhering to treatment plans?
- What are the specific areas where knowledge is lacking or misconceptions are prevalent in the area under study?
- What are the attitudes of women towards seeking medical help for symptoms related to uterine fibroids?
- What are the barriers that prevent women from acquiring accurate information about uterine fibroids?
- What is the level of knowledge women of childbearing age have about uterine fibroids, including their causes, symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options?
1.6 Research Hypothesis
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
Hypothesis One
- H0: There is no significant difference in the level of knowledge about uterine fibroids among women of childbearing age.
- H1: There is a significant difference in the level of knowledge about uterine fibroids among women of childbearing age.
Hypothesis Two
- H0: Women of childbearing age do not perceive uterine fibroids as a severe health issue.
- H1: Women of childbearing age perceive uterine fibroids as a severe health issue.
1.7 Significance of Study
The study can shed light on racial and ethnic disparities in the knowledge, perception, and attitudes towards uterine fibroids. By identifying specific needs and challenges faced by different demographic groups, healthcare providers and policymakers can develop targeted interventions to reduce disparities and promote health equity.
Additionally, insight into women's attitudes towards seeking medical help for uterine fibroids can facilitate better communication between patients and healthcare providers. This can lead to improved patient satisfaction, adherence to treatment plans, and ultimately, better health outcomes.
Furthermore, findings from the study can inform healthcare policies and practices related to uterine fibroids. By highlighting areas of need and identifying effective strategies for education and intervention, policymakers can allocate resources more effectively and improve the overall management of uterine fibroids.
1.8 Scope of Study
The scope of the research is focused on the knowledge, perception and attitude towards uterine fibroid among women of child bearing age using Obanliku Local Government Area of Cross River State as a case study.
1.9 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, many things militated against its completion, some of which are:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
- Initial Cooperation Delay from Respondents: A particular limitation of this work came as a result of the respondent refusal to offer their cooperation at the initial time they were contacted. This contributed in making the success of this research study difficult.
1.10 Definition of Terms
Uterine Fibroids:
It is also known as leiomyomas or myomas, uterine fibroids are benign tumors that originate from the smooth muscle layer of the uterus. They are the most common type of pelvic tumor in women and can lead to various symptoms, including heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and reproductive complications (Bulun, 2013).
Knowledge:
In the context of this study, knowledge refers to the understanding and awareness that women of childbearing age have about uterine fibroids, including their causes, symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options.
Perception:
Perception encompasses how women perceive uterine fibroids in terms of severity, impact on health, and potential complications. It also includes cultural, social, and personal beliefs that shape their perceptions of the condition.
Attitude:
It refers to women's feelings, opinions, and behavioral tendencies towards uterine fibroids. This includes their willingness to seek medical help for symptoms related to fibroids, as well as their emotional responses to a diagnosis of uterine fibroids.
Childbearing Age:
Childbearing age typically refers to the reproductive years in women, generally spanning from adolescence to menopause, although exact age ranges may vary in different contexts and populations.
