Introduction. Cervical cancer is the most common after breast cancer of female genital mutilation. It is the fourth of all cancers, diagnosed in women. Despite of the decrease in the incidence of cervical cancer in Poland, in comparison with the countries of the European Union, is still the highest percentage of cases and deaths from cervical cancer. Aim of the study. The aim of this study is assessment of knowledge of Polish women about the prevention of cervical cancer, which may in the future be used to create an educational program. Material and methods. The study population was a group of 777 female. Data were collected by questionnaire consisting of three questions, birth date, and 10 questions on the prevention and early detection of cervical cancer. Results. Most rarely carry out cytology young women – up to 29 years of age, in the last year only 40% of those polled. Three times more women with secondary education, vocational and primary (36.3%) have never failed to fulfill cytology compared to women with higher education (12.3%). The vast majority of women are aware that a major risk factor for cervical cancer is infection with HPV (89.7%). Conclusions. Educating young people in the field of prevention and early detection of cervical cancer.

Key words: cervical cancer, prevention.