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Women's understanding of a "normal smear test result": experimental questionnaire based study
T M Marteau1, V Senior, P Sasieni
1Psychology and Genetics Research Group, King's College, London, London SE1 9RT. theresa.marteau@kcl.ac.uk
BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.)
|March 7, 2001
Summary
Women's understanding of "normal" cervical smear results improved when the residual risk of cancer was explained verbally. Current NHS reporting needs enhancement to clarify low risk, ensuring better patient comprehension.
Area of Science:
- Gynecologic Oncology
- Public Health Communication
- Health Literacy
Background:
- The NHS cervical screening programme uses the term "normal smear result" for negative tests.
- Understanding the residual risk of cervical cancer after a normal result is crucial for informed decision-making.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess women's comprehension of a negative cervical smear test result termed "normal."
- To evaluate how different risk communication strategies impact understanding of residual cervical cancer risk.
Main Methods:
- An experimental questionnaire-based study involving 1027 women aged 20-64.
- Participants were presented with a "normal smear result" and varying explanations of residual risk (verbal, numerical absolute, numerical relative risk).
Main Results:
- Only 52% of women understood the residual risk with a "normal" result alone.
- Explaining residual risk verbally as "low risk" increased correct understanding to 70%.
- Numerical risk presentations (absolute or relative) did not significantly improve comprehension.
Conclusions:
- The current NHS policy for reporting normal smear results requires revision.
- Reporting should include a clear statement defining "normal" as a low risk of cervical cancer within five years.
- Improved risk communication is essential for enhancing patient understanding and engagement in cervical screening.