A Theory-Based Examination of Nurses’ Preventive Intentions and Attitudes Toward Cervical Cancer in Mosul

Background: Cervical cancer remains a pressing public health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) such as Iraq, where limited awareness, inadequate screening programs, and strong cultural barriers hinder prevention. Nurses play a pivotal role in cervical cancer prevention through patient education, screening advocacy, and vaccine promotion. However, their knowledge, cultural attitudes, and behavioral intentions remain underexplored within the Iraqi healthcare context.Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, cultural attitudes, and behavioral intentions of nurses toward cervical cancer prevention in Mosul, Iraq, using the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) as a conceptual framework.Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 105 nurses working in three maternal hospitals in Mosul. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire consisting of four sections: demographic data, knowledge assessment, cultural attitude scales, and behavioral intention measures. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses, including Pearsons correlation and chi-square tests, were conducted using SPSS version 25 to examine relationships among variables.Results: The findings revealed that while most nurses demonstrated moderate knowledge of cervical cancer symptoms and screening methods (notably HPV vaccination awareness at 78.1%), significant gaps persisted in understanding HPV as a causal agent (35.2%) and in recognizing key risk factors (43.8%). Cultural attitudes were largely negative, shaped by stigma and conservative beliefs, which impeded engagement in prevention efforts. Despite these barriers, a notable proportion of nurses expressed intentions to educate patients (42.9%) and advocate for screening (41.9%). No significant associations were found between most demographic variables and knowledge or attitudes, except for years of experience in obstetrics and gynecology, which significantly influenced knowledge (p = 0.005).Conclusion: This study underscores critical knowledge deficits and cultural challenges affecting nurses' engagement in cervical cancer prevention in Mosul. Applying the Theory of Reasoned Action, the findings suggest that enhancing knowledge and addressing cultural barriers through targeted training and policy support is essential for empowering nurses in their preventive roles. These insights can guide national health strategies aimed at reducing the cervical cancer burden in Iraq.