Abstract
Ovarian cancer emerges as a critical public health challenge in Nigeria, positioning itself as a leading cause of cancer-related mortality among women. The disease is characterized by increasingly alarming incidence and mortality rates, primarily attributed to systematically delayed diagnoses. Despite the availability of advanced screening methodologies, such as transvaginal ultrasound and CA-125 blood testing, screening uptake remains dismally low, with market women representing a particularly vulnerable demographic. The study employed a descriptive correlational research design to comprehensively investigate the complex landscape of ovarian cancer screening behaviours. A carefully selected sample of 360 market women from Abeokuta, Ogun State, formed the research population. The data collection utilized a meticulously structured, self-developed questionnaire, designed to capture nuanced insights into social factors and screening behaviours. The statistical analysis was conducted using Statistical Product and Services Solution (SPSS) version 29.0. The research employed a descriptive approach utilizing frequency counts, percentage distributions, and weighted mean calculations to analyze demographic characteristics and assess participants' knowledge levels. Inferential statistical techniques, specifically multiple linear regression, were applied to examine the potential influences of social factors on ovarian cancer screening behaviours. The findings revealed a troubling public health concern about ovarian cancer knowledge and awareness. Market women demonstrated consistently low levels of knowledge about the disease, indicating significant gaps in health literacy. The statistical analysis of social determinants yielded peer influence (β=0.113, p>0.05) showed no statistically significant independent impact on screening behaviours. Religious influences (β=0.165, p>0.05) similarly failed to demonstrate substantial predictive power and mass media influence (β=0.064, p>0.05) emerged as equally non-significant in driving screening decisions. The research conclusively demonstrated a critical deficit in ovarian cancer knowledge among market women in Abeokuta. This finding underscores the urgent need for targeted, culturally sensitive health communication strategies. Recommendations prominently feature leveraging mass media as a strategic tool for disseminating accurate, accessible information about ovarian cancer screening.