HPV Self-Sampling for Cervical Cancer Screening in Under-Screened Saskatchewan Populations: A Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Public Health
• Gynecology

Background:

• Cervical cancer incidence is rapidly increasing among Canadian females.
• Saskatchewan, a sparsely populated province, faces challenges in cervical cancer screening participation.
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) testing is a key strategy for cervical cancer prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of HPV self-sampling in improving cervical cancer screening participation.
• To compare participation rates between mailed and in-person distributed self-sampling kits in urban and rural settings.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study involved 500 participants (aged 30-69) in Saskatchewan.
• Participants were randomized to receive HPV self-sampling kits via mailout (n=250) or in-person handout (n=250).
• Returned samples were analyzed for HPV strains using the Roche Cobas 4800® System.

Main Results:

• The overall response rate for HPV self-sampling was approximately 16%.
• In-person kit distribution achieved a roughly double response rate compared to mailouts.
• Higher HPV positivity was observed in an inner-city clinic group compared to other groups.

Conclusions:

• In-person distribution of HPV self-sampling kits may enhance screening participation.
• Targeted in-person outreach may be most effective for high-risk populations.
• Further research is needed to optimize HPV self-sampling strategies for cervical cancer prevention.