The role of general practitioners in promoting cervical cancer screening: a field survey in a rural area of Crete, Greece.

The early detection of cervical cancer with a Papanicolaou (Pap) smear has resulted in a great decline of mortality rates in developed countries, a progress suggesting that general practice may have a crucial role in promoting screening. This study explores the impact of general practitioners on women's adherence to Pap screening recommendations in a rural area of Crete, Greece. A cross-sectional study was conducted during 2006 in a rural area of 3,000 inhabitants, where access to primary care is free of charge.