A qualitative assessment of the acceptability of human papillomavirus self‐sampling and informational materials among diverse populations

Abstract

Abstract Background Disparities in cervical cancer screening rates among marginalized groups is a driver of inequalities in cervical cancer. Self‐sampling for human papillomavirus (HPV) testing is a newly emerging alternative to clinician‐performed testing to screen for cervical cancer, and has high potential to reduce screening barriers in under‐screened and marginalized groups. We study the acceptability in of HPV self‐sampling and informational materials among Black/African American, Hispanic/Spanish speaking, American Indian/Alaska Native and transgender/nonbinary populations. Methods We conducted qualitative interviews with patients, ages 30–65, who were Black/African American, Hispanic, American Indian, and/or transgender/nonbinary individuals assigned female at birth. Telephone interviews were conducted in English or Spanish. Patients did not complete the test, rather were asked about the attractiveness, comprehensibility, and acceptability of the HPV self‐test, instructions, and messaging. Results Among 23 completed interviews (5 American Indian/Alaska Native, 7 Hispanic [2 bilingual, 5 Spanish‐speaking], 5 Black/African American, and 6 transgender/nonbinary), patients from all groups thought the test was straightforward and convenient, and they would complete the test at home or in clinic. The transgender/nonbinary patients preferred at‐home testing. American Indian and transgender/nonbinary patients liked that the test might avoid pain, discomfort, and invasiveness. All patients liked the letter and instructions. All groups had specific suggestions for making the materials more culturally acceptable. Conclusions The HPV self‐test and the instructions and materials for use were acceptable for a diverse group of patients. Tailored outreach and messaging should be considered to reduce screening disparities among groups that have been historically underserved by the medical system.

Keywords

• cervical cancer screening
• diverse populations
• HPV self‐test
• qualitative interviews
• self‐sampling