Motivations and Preferences for Self-Sampled Human Papillomavirus Testing Among Average-and High-Risk Patients: An...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Public Health
• Gynecology

Background:

• Cervical cancer screening rates are below national targets, necessitating innovative approaches.
• At-home self-sampled human papillomavirus (HPV) testing offers a potential solution to increase screening participation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the acceptability of at-home self-sampled HPV testing.
• To explore motivating factors and preferences for HPV testing modality among average-risk and high-risk patients.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 46 female participants (ages 30-65) who had previously undergone clinician-collected screening.
• Participants completed an at-home self-sampled HPV test and a survey assessing motivators and test preference.
• Analysis focused on the relationship between motivating factors and preference for future cervical cancer screening methods.

Main Results:

• A majority of participants (57%) preferred at-home self-sampled HPV testing for future screenings.
• Few participants reported negative feelings (e.g., discomfort, anxiety) during the self-sampling process.
• Preference for self-sampled HPV testing did not significantly differ between average-risk and high-risk patient groups.

Conclusions:

• At-home self-sampled HPV testing demonstrates high acceptability across different patient risk groups.
• This method shows promise as an effective strategy to enhance cervical cancer screening rates, including for high-risk populations.