Cervical Cancer Screening Rates and Associated Sociodemographic and Behavioral Factors among People Experiencing...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Gynecologic Oncology
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Cervical cancer screening is crucial for early detection and prevention.
• Homeless populations face significant barriers to healthcare access, including preventive services.
• Understanding screening gaps and risk factors is vital for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine cervical cancer screening rates among individuals experiencing homelessness in Indiana.
• To identify the prevalence of cervical cancer risk factors in this population.
• To examine factors associated with being overdue for cervical cancer screening.

Main Methods:

• Rapid assessment surveys were conducted with 212 participants (aged 21-69, assigned female at birth) experiencing homelessness.
• Screening status was defined as up-to-date (within 5 years) or overdue (over 5 years or never screened).
• Multivariable logistic regression analyzed predictors of overdue screening status.

Main Results:

• 35% of participants were overdue for cervical cancer screening; 49% had not been screened in 3 years.
• High prevalence of risk factors: smoking (74%), early sexual debut (73%), no HPV vaccination (75%).
• Older age and homelessness duration of 5+ years were linked to higher odds of being overdue.

Conclusions:

• Chronic housing instability and longer homelessness duration significantly increase the likelihood of being overdue for cervical cancer screening.
• Cervical cancer prevention is a critical unmet need for women experiencing homelessness.
• Targeted interventions are essential to improve cervical cancer screening access for this vulnerable population.