Enhancing equity in cervical screening - initiatives to increase screening participation
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
10-1-2024
Abstract
Purpose of reviewCervical cancer can be eliminated as a public health problem through a three-pillar approach including high coverage of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and HPV-based cervical screening, and treatment of precancers and invasive cancers. However, access inequities prevent many women and people with a cervix benefitting from these life-saving advances. This review focuses on evidence-based interventions that can improve equity and scale-up of cervical screening.Recent findingsThe transition from conventional cytology to HPV screening provides multiple opportunities to address equity and a multipronged approach can be used to identify priority groups, understand barriers and develop tailored solutions. There are proven financing mechanisms, tools, technologies and screening delivery methods to overcome screening barriers in different settings. This includes self-sampling interventions, point-of-care testing, health service integration, consumer-led co-design processes and digital screening registries.SummaryTo achieve cervical cancer elimination globally, cervical screening must be delivered in an inclusive, culturally safe and context-appropriate manner. There are multiple tools and strategies that can be implemented to improve participation of never- and under-screened groups, and to enhance equity in cervical screening.
Keywords
cervical cancer, cervical screening, equity, human papillomavirus testing, screening barriers
Divisions
obstetrics
Publication Title
Current Opinion in Obstetrics & Gynecology
Volume
36
Issue
5
Publisher
Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins
Publisher Location
TWO COMMERCE SQ, 2001 MARKET ST, PHILADELPHIA, PA 19103 USA