<![CDATA[Cervical cancer remains a primary cause of morbidity and mortality among women globally and represents a significant public health challenge in Indonesia, where screening coverage via Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) remains critically low (0.18% in the target region). This study contributed to examining the correlation between knowledge and peer support and the participation of women of reproductive age (WRA) in early detection. A descriptive correlational research design with a cross-sectional approach was conducted in the operational coverage area of the RI Sido Mulyo Community Health Center, Pekanbaru. A representative sample of 99 WRA aged 30–50 years was selected using purposive sampling based on Slovin's formula. Data were collected using validated structured questionnaires: the Cervical Cancer Knowledge Questionnaire, the Peer Support Scale, and the VIA Screening Participation Form. Univariate and bivariate analyses were executed using Chi-square tests. Univariate analysis revealed that 53.4% of respondents were in late adulthood (35–45 years), 55.6% completed senior high school, 57.6% were homemakers, 64.6% married in late adolescence (17–25 years), and 79.8% were multiparous. Bivariate analysis demonstrated a statistically significant correlation between knowledge and VIA screening participation (p = 0.010), as well as between peer support and VIA screening participation (p = 0.002). This study underscores the critical interplay between individual cognitive awareness and social reinforcement in driving preventive health behaviors. Strengthening community-based health education and establishing peer support networks are essential strategic contributions to increasing VIA screening rates and improving reproductive health outcomes in primary care settings.]]>
