Do women's fatalistic tendencies affect their attitudes toward the early diagnosis of cervical cancer?

Background: Cervical cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women, and early diagnosis can significantly reduce mortality rates. However, cervical cancer screening rates have not reached the desired levels. The purpose of this study is to determine the relationship between women's fatalistic tendencies and their attitudes toward the early diagnosis of cervical cancer. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2023 to March 2024 and included 385 women. Data were collected through an online survey, which featured a personal information form, the Attitudes Toward the Early Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer Scale (AEDCCS), and the Fatalistic Tendency Scale (FTS). Results: The mean scores for the AEDCCS and the FTS total scales were 101.2 +/- 10.4 and 73.5 +/- 9.3, respectively. Linear regression analysis revealed a statistically significant relationship between the AEDCCS total score and the superstition subscale of the FTS (t = -2.370; beta = -0.540) (p <0.05). Conclusions: The results indicate that women's superstitious beliefs are predictors of their attitudes toward early detection of cervical cancer. It is recommended that health professionals consider women's fatalistic tendencies and superstitious beliefs when designing educational and informational programs to encourage participation in cervical cancer screening.