Increasing Uptake Of Screening For Women's Cancers: A Systematic Review Of Interventions To Increase Attendance At...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Preventive Medicine
• Oncology

Background:

• Low uptake of cancer screening is a significant issue for individuals newly eligible across UK screening programmes.
• Effective strategies are needed to encourage participation, particularly at the first invitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the published literature on strategies aimed at increasing cancer screening uptake among women receiving their first invitation.
• To establish an evidence base for effective interventions for first-time screening attendees.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review of published literature was conducted.
• Studies focused on breast and/or cervical screening invitations for first-time invitees in the UK, using quantitative or qualitative methods.
• Eight quantitative studies involving 40,326 participants were selected.

Main Results:

• Evidence suggests moderate scientific quality for strategies including timed appointments, SMS reminders, postal prompts, and self-sampling in increasing screening uptake.
• The overall evidence base was limited.

Conclusions:

• Timed appointments, SMS, postal prompts, and self-sampling show potential for improving initial cancer screening uptake.
• Future research should investigate the needs of first-time invitees and explore the mechanisms of effective strategies, particularly for self-sampling, through qualitative methods.