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Improving follow-up after an abnormal Pap smear: a randomized controlled trial
E D Paskett1, E White, W B Carter
1Department of Public Health Sciences, Bowman Gray School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27103.
Preventive Medicine
|November 1, 1990
Summary
A pamphlet improved follow-up rates for women with abnormal Pap smears, increasing return visits for crucial surveillance and treatment. This targeted intervention shows promise for enhancing cervical cancer screening compliance.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Gynecology
- Health Behavior
Background:
- Low follow-up rates for abnormal Pap smears (<60%) hinder timely surveillance and treatment.
- Current recall strategies are often resource-intensive and may lack psychological efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effectiveness of a psychologically-based pamphlet in motivating women with abnormal Pap smears to return for follow-up.
- To identify patient subgroups that may benefit from more intensive interventions.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 161 women with abnormal Pap smears.
- Intervention group received a pamphlet and notification letter; comparison group received only a letter.
- Compliance rates for repeat Pap smears were compared between groups.
Main Results:
- The intervention group showed a higher compliance rate (64.2%) compared to the comparison group (51.3%), though not statistically significant (P=0.10).
- Subgroup analysis indicated potential need for intensified interventions for women not practicing health-related behaviors.
Conclusions:
- A psychologically-informed pamphlet may enhance patient adherence to cervical cancer surveillance recommendations.
- Future strategies should consider tailored, intensive interventions for specific patient populations to improve follow-up care.