HPV Self-Sampling for Cervical Cancer Screening in Morocco: A Cross-Sectional Study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Gynecologic Oncology
• Molecular Diagnostics

Background:

• Cervical cancer screening is crucial for early detection and prevention.
• Morocco plans to implement HPV testing as a primary screening method.
• HPV self-sampling presents an opportunity to increase screening participation, particularly in underserved regions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of HPV self-sampling using the GeneXpert assay in Morocco.
• To compare HPV self-sampling with clinician-administered methods for cervical cancer screening.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 997 women aged 30 or 40 in four Moroccan provinces.
• Participants chose between clinician-collected, supervised self-collected, or unsupervised self-collected samples.
• HPV detection and genotyping were performed using the GeneXpert HPV assay.

Main Results:

• 13% of women opted for self-sampling (supervised and unsupervised combined).
• Younger, urban women with higher education and income were more likely to choose self-sampling.
• High satisfaction reported; diagnostic performance of HPV testing was comparable between self- and clinician-collected samples.

Conclusions:

• HPV self-sampling is a feasible and highly acceptable option for Moroccan women.
• Low uptake, particularly in rural areas, necessitates targeted education and awareness campaigns.
• Integrating HPV self-sampling into national screening programs can enhance participation and reduce cervical cancer incidence.