RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Emerging role of HPV self-sampling in cervical cancer screening for hard-to-reach women
JF Canadian Family Physician
JO Can Fam Physician
FD The College of Family Physicians of Canada
SP 597
OP 601
VO 63
IS 8
A1 Madzima, Tina R.
A1 Vahabi, Mandana
A1 Lofters, Aisha
YR 2017
UL http://www.cfp.ca/content/63/8/597.abstract
AB Objective To provide a focused critical review of the literature on the acceptability, feasibility, and uptake of human papillomavirus (HPV) self-sampling among hard-to-reach women.Quality of evidence A focused search to obtain relevant literature published in English between 1997 and 2015 was done using PubMed and EMBASE using search terms including HPV self-test or HPV self-sample or HPV kit in combination with acceptability or feasibility. Only studies that focused on never-screened or underscreened populations were included in this review.Main message Human papillomavirus self-sampling was found to be highly acceptable and feasible among these hard-to-reach women across most studies. Mailing of self-sampling kits has been shown to increase participation among hard-to reach women. Some concerns remain regarding adherence to further follow-up among high-risk women with positive test results for HPV after screening.Conclusion There is a strong body of evidence to support the usefulness of HPV self-sampling in increasing participation of hard-to-reach women in screening programs (level I evidence). Convenience, privacy, ease of use, and, likely, cost-effectiveness of HPV self-sampling are driving forces in its emerging role in cervical cancer screening among hard-to-reach women. Key barriers to participation could be addressed by overcoming disparities in HPV-related knowledge and perceptions about cervical cancer screening.