mgr Aleksandra Żołyniak-Brzuchacz

ORCID: 0000-0002-0718-0206

The topic of my dissertation is: „Women's Health Behaviors in the Context of Gynecological Oncology Prevention”.

Introduction. Cancers of the reproductive organs represent a significant medical challenge due to their high prevalence and difficulties in early detection.  Globally, including in Poland, mortality rates associated with specific gynecological cancers remain high, placing a substantial burden on healthcare systems in terms of prevention and treatment. Endometrial and cervical cancers are among the most common gynecological malignancies in women. The consequences of these diseases can include severe health complications, such as infertility and impaired reproductive potential. Treatment, particularly in advanced stages, often requires radical surgical interventions. Numerous studies indicate that disparities in healthcare access between women living in urban and rural areas further exacerbate this issue. The unequal availability of preventive measures, diagnostic services, and treatment options contributes to significant health disparities, making this a pressing social and public health concern. Moreover, existing preventive strategies—including those available for specific types of cancer—are often insufficiently effective.

Aim. This research project aims to compare the health behaviors of women of reproductive age residing in rural and urban areas of the Podkarpackie Province, with a focus on gynecological oncology prevention.

Material. The study will include women of reproductive age (18–40 years), as this group is particularly relevant for gynecological and oncological prevention. Participants will be recruited from both urban and rural areas of the Podkarpackie Province. A purposive sampling method will be employed to ensure the representativeness of both urban and rural populations. Based on data from the Central Statistical Office regarding the female population in the region, a sample size of 385 respondents per group has been determined to ensure methodological validity.

Research Methods. The study will be conducted using a diagnostic survey method, employing both standardized and original questionnaire-based approaches. Data collection will be conducted through direct, in-person surveys (paper-based), ensuring full anonymity. The project will commence following approval from relevant institutional and facility managers across the province, ensuring the representativeness of the study population. Standardized research instruments will include The Scale of Positive Health Behaviors for Women, The Health Behavior Inventory, The Physical Activity Goals Questionnaire, and The LOT-R Life Orientation Test. Additionally, an original questionnaire will be developed, covering selected demographic data, awareness and knowledge of gynecological cancers, health and preventive behaviors (including participation in screening programs), and the identification of motivational factors and barriers to participation in preventive measures.

Expected Results. This research project aims to identify key health behaviors influencing gynecological cancer prevention, including regular gynecological check-ups, physical activity, and stress management. Women’s awareness of risk factors and preventive measures in gynecological oncology will also be assessed. The study will explore differences between urban and rural populations, with a particular focus on access to healthcare and educational resources. A comparative analysis will evaluate levels of awareness and engagement in preventive measures, examining how place of residence influences these aspects. The study will also examine the impact of demographic and socioeconomic factors, such as education level and financial status, on women's health behaviors. The findings will contribute to the development of targeted recommendations for more effective preventive strategies and intervention programs, particularly for high-risk groups. Furthermore, the study will assess the potential role of digital tools in health education and in reducing barriers to preventive care. Importantly, the results will provide practical guidance for physiotherapists, highlighting the need for an interdisciplinary approach to promoting women’s health.

Keywords: health behaviors, oncological prevention, gynecological cancers