OBJECTIVES: Reviewing the statistical indicators of mortality we see that cancer is in second most common cause of death after cardiovascular diseases. Cervical cancer is the seventh most common type of cancer (among women) in Europe. According to current estimations, there are 58,373 new diagnosed out of 3,257 million women older than 15 years, from which 24,404 ends with death. There is an organized screening system in Hungary since 2003. Most women participate “traditionally”, out of this system or ignore invitation and do not accept the opportunity. This behaviour is typical among Romany population, which is Hungary’s largest ethnic group. Many stereotypes live in our society about Romany people, like starting sexual activity early, giving birth to many children.

METHODS: A quantitative, cross-sectional study was carried out. Our sample consisted of Romany women from Zala, Baranya and Somogy county, Hungary (N=368). The main topic was reasons for staying away from cervical cancer screening in our self-made questionnaire. During statistical analysis we calculated descriptive statistics, χ-test and t-est (p<0.05).

RESULTS: Mean age of responders was 36.43±11.27 years. 17.39% never attended gynaecological screening. Mean age of participants in screening (82.34%) was 21.14±6.97 at their first time. Educational attainment is an influencing factor in participation (p<0.05). The non-participation rate of those who: have finished only elementary school is 22.6%, hold vocational training certificate is 11.9%, have finished high school is 9.1%, while 100% of women with higher education attended.

CONCLUSIONS: It is important to make Romany women aware of process of screening, it’s possible gain, barriers and accidental side effects, and most importantly the risks of staying away from screening. IT is also crucial to evolve such a health-conscious behaviour, which allows them to identify cervical cancer before the occurrence of symptoms therefore lowering mortality rate.