Barriers to cervical cancer screening in Africa: a systematic review

Changes in incidence of HPV-related cancers in South Africa (2011-21): a cross-sectional analysis of the South African National Cancer Registry

BACKGROUND

Understanding human papillomavirus (HPV)-related cancer epidemiology in South Africa is crucial for informing cancer prevention in this high-burden country. We aimed to describe HPV-related cancer incidence in South Africa between 2011 and 2021.

METHODS

For this cross-sectional study, we obtained data on cancer incidence from the South African National Cancer Registry and population estimates from Statistics South Africa. We calculated age-standardised incidence per 100 000 person-years for cervical carcinoma, and vulvar, vaginal, penile, oropharyngeal, and anal squamous cell carcinoma among people aged 15 years and older by sex, year, age, and race. Average annual percentage changes (AAPCs) were calculated using the Joinpoint Regression Program.

FINDINGS

Between Jan 1, 2011 and Dec 31, 2021, the overall cervical carcinoma incidence was 30·4 cases per 100 000 person-years (95% CI 30·2 to 30·6), which was highest in females aged 55-64 years (58·5 cases per 100 000 person-years [57·5 to 59·5]); incidence was stable between 2011 and 2016 and began to decline in 2016 (AAPC -2·7% [95% CI -10·8 to -0·2]). The incidence of vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (2·3 cases per 100 000 person-years [2·2 to 2·4]), vaginal squamous cell carcinoma (0·7 cases per 100 000 person-years [0·7 to 0·7]), and female-anal squamous cell carcinoma (0·6 cases per 100 000 person-years [0·6 to 0·7]) increased between 2011 and 2021 (AAPC 8·0% [95% CI 5·3 to 13·9] for vulvar squamous cell carcinoma; 3·2% [0·5 to 6·6] for vaginal squamous cell carcinoma; and 8·5% [2·0 to 23·2] for anal squamous cell carcinoma). The largest increase in vulvar squamous cell carcinoma between 2011 and 2021 was observed among females aged 15-44 years (AAPC 10·0% [8·2 to 13·4]) and 45-54 years (AAPC 10·7% [8·2 to 14·1]). The incidence of penile squamous cell carcinoma (1·4 cases per 10 000 person-years [1·3 to 1·4]) and anal squamous cell carcinoma in males (0·4 cases per 100 000 person-years [0·4 to 0·5]) increased between 2011 and 2021 (AAPC 6·9% [3·8 to 10·7] for penile squamous cell carcinoma; 9·3% [6·7 to 12·7] for anal squamous cell carcinoma). For both sexes, oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma trends were stable. The incidence of cervical carcinoma, vulvar squamous cell carcinoma, and vaginal squamous cell carcinoma was highest among Black females; penile squamous cell carcinoma was highest among Black males; anal squamous cell carcinoma in males was similar by race; and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma was highest among White and Coloured individuals.

INTERPRETATION

The incidence of non-cervical anogenital cancers is rapidly increasing in South Africa. The incidence of most HPV-related cancers is high among Black individuals, especially for cervical and vulvar cancers, potentially due to disproportionately high HPV-HIV co-infection prevalence among young Black females. HIV prevention and continued HPV vaccination efforts are crucial for reducing HPV-driven cancers in the future.

FUNDING

South African National Health Laboratory Services and US National Cancer Institute Intramural Research Program.

Scoping review on the perceptions and attitude of women on methods for collecting cervicovaginal samples for Human Papillomavirus testing in Sub-Saharan Africa

The burden of cervical cancer (CC) continues to rise in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) while some high-income countries are approaching elimination targets. Self-sampling for Human Papillomavirus (HPV) test for CC screening is increasingly used globally to accelerate wide coverage but some have reported barriers against its use. This scoping review explored published literature on the perception and attitude of women on the methods for collecting cervicovaginal samples for HPV testing for CC in SSA. This involves a review of electronic databases including Pubmed, Cochrane, Google Scholar, and African Journal Online. The review was limited to published English articles between 2013-2023 using the Arksey and O'Malley framework. Included studies were articles that used perception, attitude, perspective, or acceptability as primary or secondary outcome variables. Of the 137 articles, 131 articles were excluded due to duplicates and ineligibility. Six studies reported that women perceived self-sampling to provide better privacy and comfort, five studies reported that self-sampling was an easier procedure, five studies reported self-sampling was less painful, four reported that self-samples caused lesser embarrassment, three studies reported that women were willing to self-sample, and five studies reported it to be associated with better confidentiality than clinician sampling. Six studies reported that women perceived that the biological samples collected by the clinicians were more reliable compared to self-collected samples. Three studies showed that women preferred self-sampling in a private place in the hospital because they can seek reassurance from clinicians, and reduce the risk of financial burden associated with multiple visitations to the hospital. This shows that self-sampling is preferred relative to clinician-initiated collection of samples for HPV-based CC screening. It is important to emphasize increased sensitization on the reliability of self-sampling before asking the women to self-collect cervicovaginal samples.

Accuracy of real-time PCR assays for human papillomavirus using urine samples: a systematic review and meta-analysis

This study aims to assess the diagnostic accuracy of real-time PCR assays for detecting human papillomavirus (HPV) in urine samples through a systematic review and meta-analysis. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, and Springer databases (2014-2024) was conducted. Studies comparing urine-based HPV tests with cervical samples as the reference standard were included. Diagnostic accuracy measures such as sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), likelihood ratios (LR+ and LR-), percent agreement, and Cohen's kappa were calculated. Heterogeneity was assessed using the Higgins' I² index, and subgroup analyses were performed based on HPV test type and urine volume. The study revealed that 15 studies met the inclusion criteria, with pooled sensitivity of urine-based HPV tests at 0.82 (95% CI, 0.78-0.86), specificity at 0.91 (95% CI, 0.87-0.94), positive LR at 9.5 (95% CI, 6.3-14.3), negative LR at 0.19 (95% CI, 0.16-0.24), DOR at 49 (95% CI, 32-75), and the area under the curve at 0.92 (95% CI, 0.90-0.94), with significant heterogeneity observed (I² >50%), particularly in sensitivity and specificity, and subgroup analysis indicating that urine volumes ≤20 mL demonstrated higher sensitivity compared to those >20 mL, despite this finding being based on a limited number of studies. Results suggest that urine-based HPV testing shows strong diagnostic accuracy and could be a viable alternative to cervical swabs, with potential benefits for increasing screening accessibility, especially in areas with limited healthcare resources, despite some variability and limitations in the data.IMPORTANCEThis study is significant as it thoroughly evaluates the diagnostic accuracy of real-time PCR assays for human papillomavirus (HPV) detection in urine samples through a rigorous systematic review and meta-analysis. By integrating data from multiple databases and comparing urine-based HPV tests with the established cervical sample reference standard, the study provides valuable insights into the effectiveness and reliability of non-invasive HPV screening methods. The findings demonstrate that urine-based tests exhibit high sensitivity and specificity, offering a promising alternative to traditional cervical swabs. This advancement has significant implications for increasing accessibility to HPV screening, particularly in under-resourced settings, thereby potentially enhancing cervical cancer prevention efforts on a broader scale. The study not only fills a critical gap in HPV screening methodologies but also supports the development of more inclusive and practical public health strategies for combating cervical cancer.

Wealth-related inequalities of women's cervical cancer screening in 11 Sub-Saharan African countries: evidence from a pooled decomposition analysis

Cervical cancer is a preventable disease and ranks as the fourth most common cancer, as well as a major cause of cancer deaths among women globally. Despite initiatives by the World Health Organization to reduce cervical cancer incidence through vaccination, screening, and treatment, significant inequalities in healthcare access persist, particularly in low-income regions where economic and infrastructural barriers hinder access to screening services. Therefore, this study aimed to examine wealth-related inequalities in cervical cancer screening among women in Sub-Saharan African countries. The study analyzed 138,605 weighted samples of reproductive-aged women from DHS data spanning 2015 to 2023 across SSA countries. To assess socioeconomic-related inequality in cervical cancer screening uptake, the Erreygers normalized concentration index and its concentration curve were utilized. Additionally, a decomposition analysis was conducted to identify factors contributing to this inequality. The weighted Erreygers normalized concentration index was 0.25 with a standard error of 0.0078 (P value < 0.0001), indicating a statistically significant pro-rich distribution of wealth-related inequalities in cervical cancer screening uptake among reproductive-aged women. The decomposition analysis identified media exposure (20%), wealth index (15.58%), educational status (6.23%), and place of residence (2.18%) significantly contribute to screening inequalities. To address cervical cancer screening disparities in SSA, targeted strategies such as awareness campaigns for low-income groups, free screening services, mobile units in rural areas, and health literacy programs are recommended. Training community health workers and policy advocacy are also crucial. Comprehensive interventions should enhance media outreach, health education, and healthcare accessibility in both urban and rural areas to ensure equitable screening rates.

The socioeconomic burden of cervical cancer and its implications for strategies required to achieve the WHO elimination targets

INTRODUCTION

Cervical cancer is almost entirely preventable by vaccination and screening. Population-based vaccination and screening programs are effective and cost effective, but millions of people do not have access to these programs, causing immense suffering. The WHO Global Strategy for the elimination of cervical cancer as a public health problem calls for countries to meet ambitious vaccination, screening, and treatment targets.

AREAS COVERED

Epidemiological evidence indicates marked socioeconomic gradients in the burden of cervical cancer and vaccination, screening, and treatment coverage. The unacceptable socioeconomic burden of cervical cancer is largely a function of inequitable access to these programs. We discuss these inequities, and highlight strategies enabled by new evidence and technology. Single dose HPV vaccination, HPV-based screening, and the rapidly moving technology landscape have enabled task-shifting, innovation in service delivery and the possibility of scale. Equitable access to optimal care for the treatment of invasive cancers remains a challenge.

EXPERT OPINION

Cervical cancer can be eliminated equitably. It will require global political will, sustained public and private investment, and community leadership to safely and sustainably embed proven tools, technology and infrastructure in local health and knowledge systems.

Barriers to breast and cervical cancer screening among adolescent girls and young women in Kenya: A nationwide cross-sectional survey

Promoting regular screening remains one of the primary preventive measures for breast and cervical cancer. The study aimed to assess the prevalence and barriers to breast and cervical cancer screening among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in Kenya. The study used data from the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS), with 12,026 AGYW who were selected by multistage sampling. The outcomes of interest were breast and cervical cancer screening. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess factors negatively associated with the outcome variables, using SPSS (version 29.0). Of the 12,026 AGYW included in this study, only 6.0% (95%CI: 5.6-6.8) and 5.1% (95%CI: 4.8-6.0) had undertaken breast and cervical cancer screening, respectively. Low education (AOR = 0.08, 95%CI: 0.02-0.34 and AOR = 0.48, 95%CI: 0.28-0.83), not working (AOR = 0.67, 95%CI: 0.46-0.97 and AOR = 0.59, 95%CI: 0.42-0.82), low wealth index (AOR = 0.55, 95%CI: 0.32-0.92 and AOR = 0.45, 95%CI: 0.25-0.81), no visit to a healthcare facility in the last 6 months (AOR = 0.48, 95%CI: 0.33-0.69 and AOR = 0.50, 95%CI: 0.35-0.71), and no birth record (AOR = 0.29, 95%CI: 0.13-0.62 and AOR = 0.58, 95%CI: 0.27-0.74), were the major barriers to both breast and cervical cancer screening, respectively. Moreover, having no access to newspaper (AOR = 0.67, 95%CI: 0.46-0.97) was a significant barrier to breast cancer screening while having big problems with distance to a healthcare facility (AOR = 0.49, 95%CI: 0.33-0.73) and not using modern contraception (AOR = 0.60, 95%CI: 0.42-0.86) hindered cervical cancer screening. In conclusion, more efforts are needed from both the government and cancer stakeholders to increase accessibility of breast and cervical cancer screening services, especially to those with low social economic status. More targeted education and sensitization, improving livelihoods of AGYW through various women empowerment efforts, and improving screening capacity of low-grade healthcare facilities are among the useful strategies to improve the low screening rates.

Socioeconomic inequality in cervical cancer screening uptake among women in sub-Saharan Africa: a decomposition analysis of Demographic and Health Survey data

OBJECTIVE

To examine socioeconomic inequalities in the use of cervical cancer screening among women in sub-Saharan Africa.

DESIGN

Secondary data from the Demographic and Health Survey data in sub-Saharan Africa.

SETTING

Sub-Saharan Africa.

PARTICIPANTS

Women aged 15-64 years.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Socioeconomic inequalities in cervical cancer screening uptake and the pooled prevalence of cervical cancer screening.

RESULTS

The pooled prevalence of cervical cancer screening among women in sub-Saharan African countries was 10.51% (95% CI: 7.54% to 13.48%). Cervical cancer screening uptake showed a significant pro-rich distribution of wealth-related inequalities, with a weighted Erreygers normalised concentration index of 0.084 and an SE of 0.003 (p value <0.0001). This finding suggests that disparities in cervical cancer screening uptake among women are related to wealth. Decomposition analysis revealed that the wealth index, educational status, place of residence and media exposure were the most important factors contributing to this pro-rich socioeconomic inequality in cervical cancer screening.

CONCLUSION

This study emphasises the importance of addressing modifiable factors such as improving educational opportunities, increasing media exposure accessibility in households and improving the country's economy to reduce wealth disparities and improve cervical cancer screening uptake among women.

Assessing Barriers to Cancer Screening and Early Detection in Older Adults in Saudi Arabia: A Mixed-Methods Approach to Oncology Nursing Practice Implications

BACKGROUND

Access to cancer screening services is crucial for early detection and improved survival rates, yet older adults in Saudi Arabia face significant barriers. Recent data from the Saudi Health Ministry indicate that cancer incidence in this demographic is rising, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced screening efforts. This study explores the factors influencing cancer screening behaviors among older adults in Riyadh, using a mixed-methods approach to identify and address these barriers effectively.

METHODS

The study integrated quantitative data from 100 participants aged 60 and above who attended King Saud University-affiliated healthcare centers, and qualitative insights from 20 semi-structured interviews. The Barriers to Cancer Screening Scale (BCSS) quantitatively assessed barriers, while the thematic analysis of interview data helped identify key themes.

RESULTS

Findings revealed significant barriers, categorized into three primary themes: accessibility challenges, psychological barriers, and social influences. These include logistical difficulties related to transportation and service availability, fears and anxieties regarding cancer diagnoses, and a lack of family support and cultural stigma, all of which impact participants' willingness to engage in screening.

CONCLUSION

The study underscores the multifaceted barriers faced by older adults in accessing cancer screening in Saudi Arabia. Tailored interventions that address logistical, psychological, and social factors are essential to enhance screening uptake and ensure equitable access to preventive services. These findings contribute to the ongoing discussions on public health strategies and underscore the necessity for community and healthcare provider engagement to improve cancer screening rates in this population.

Study of Knowledge, Attitudes, Acceptability and Preference of Home-based HPV Self-Sampling Among a Population of Moroccan Women

In Morocco, cervical cancer screening rate is still low, which determines the need to adopt new screening approaches. Vaginal self-sampling for HPV testing is one of these strategies. Anticipating changes in screening plans for CC, we would like to present to health authorities a global view about the acceptability and preference of vaginal self-sampling for HPV testing among a population of Moroccan women. The aim of this pilot study is to assess the acceptability and preference of vaginal self-sampling for HPV testing among a population of Moroccan women. A cross-sectional study surveyed 400 Moroccan women aged between 25 and 65 years, who are recruited from various healthcare facilities in three Moroccan regions, between March and November 2022. Data were collected via interviews, using a questionnaire. Among the 400 participants, 380 (95%) were ready to undergo a vaginal self-sampling for HPV testing. Among participants who expressed their willingness to perform this test, 295 (73.6%) prefer to carry out it at home. A decreased likelihood of HPV self-sampling was determined by belief that only women with vaginal discharge or bleeding need to be screened. Age, marital status, perceived severity of CC, practice CC screening, and perceived self-efficacy were identified as the main factors influencing the preference for home based vaginal self-sampling for HPV testing. Vaginal self-sampling for HPV testing is an alternative option that could overcome a set of screening barriers defined in the Moroccan context, in order to increase CC screening coverage.

Modeling the health and economic implications of adopting a 1-dose 9-valent human papillomavirus vaccination program in adolescents in low/middle-income countries: An analysis of Indonesia

BACKGROUND

Recent evidence suggests that 1 dose of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine may have similar effectiveness in reducing HPV infection risk compared to 2 or 3 doses.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the public health impact and cost-effectiveness of implementing a 1-dose or a 2-dose program of the 9-valent HPV vaccine in a low- and middle-income country (LMIC).

METHODS

We adapted a dynamic transmission model to the Indonesia setting, and conducted a probabilistic sensitivity analysis using distributions reflecting the uncertainty in levels and durability of protection of a 1-dose that were estimated under a Bayesian framework incorporating 3-year vaccine efficacy data from the KEN SHE trial (base-case) and 10 year effectiveness data from the India IARC study (alternative analysis). Scenarios included different coverage levels targeted at girls-only, or girls and boys. Costs and benefits were computed over 100 years from a national single-payer perspective.

RESULTS

Depending on the coverage and target population, the median number of cancer cases avoided in 2-dose programs ranged between 600,000-2,100,000, compared to 200,000-600,000 in 1-dose programs. The 1-dose programs are unlikely to be cost-effective compared to 2-dose programs even at low willingness-to-pay (WTP) thresholds. The girls-only 2-dose program tends to be cost-effective at lower WTP thresholds, particularly in scenarios with high coverage, dose price and discount rate, while the girls and boys 2-dose program is cost-effective at higher WTP thresholds. In the alternative analysis, 1-dose programs have higher probability of being cost-effective compared to the base-case, particularly for low WTP thresholds (less than 0.5 GDP) and for high coverage, dose price and discount rate.

CONCLUSION

Adoption of 1-dose programs with 9-valent vaccine in an LMIC resulted in more vaccine-preventable HPV-related cancer cases than 2-dose programs. The 2-dose programs were more likely to be cost-effective than 1-dose programs for a wide range of WTP thresholds and scenarios.

Personal Networks and Cervical Cancer Screening among Black Immigrant Women

BACKGROUND

Prior research has linked personal network characteristics with cancer screening uptake including Papanicolaou (Pap) screening, but less is known about the experiences of Black immigrant women (BIW) in the USA. We examined the relationship between network characteristics and Pap screening among BIW and explored how their network members influence their cancer related knowledge and prevention behaviors.

METHODS

A mixed methods study of BIW, aged 21-65 years, in southeastern US included a cross-sectional survey (N = 204) and in-depth individual interviews (N = 13). We examined whether high-social connectedness, contact frequency, and social support were associated with Pap screening, using multivariable logistic regression models. Thematic analysis further assessed the roles of personal network factors on BIW's cancer preventive behaviors.

RESULTS

Pap screening was more likely among BIW with high- versus low-social connectedness (OR: 2.68, CI: 1.12, 6.46). However, the impact of high-social connectedness was attenuated, after adjusting for demographic factors and health insurance. Our qualitative findings revealed that both BIW and their personal networks had limited knowledge on cancer and related prevention measures. Close network members, particularly mother-figures, provided support for BIW's care seeking efforts, including cancer screening, although some participants mentioned a lack of screening support.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that Black immigrant communities may benefit from tailored cancer prevention interventions among close network members, to improve knowledge and support for cancer control behaviors.

Determinants of cervical cancer screening intention among reproductive age women in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Cervical cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality in Ethiopia, despite being preventable. Screening programs remain underutilized despite multiple initiatives. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the pooled prevalence of intention to undergo cervical cancer screening and its associated factors among Ethiopian women, addressing a significant gap in national data.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

This systematic review and meta-analysis followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Databases such as PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, HINARI, Google Scholar, and African Journals online were searched using specific keywords and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH). Studies were assessed using a standardized appraisal format adapted from the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Data extraction and analysis were performed using Microsoft Excel-10 and STATA 17 software, respectively. Heterogeneity was evaluated with the I2 statistic and publication bias was examined using Egger's test. Meta-analysis employed a random-effects model.

RESULT

Out of the 750 articles retrieved, nine were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of intention to screen for cervical cancer in Ethiopia was 33% (95% CI: 9%-56%). Factors significantly associated with intention to undergo cervical cancer screening included favorable attitude (POR = 2.15, 95% CI: 1.29, 4.26), good knowledge about cervical cancer screening (POR: 3.49; 95% CI: 2.04, 6.93), and direct subjective norm (POR: 1.54; 95% CI: 1.32, 3.54).

CONCLUSION

Based on the findings of this meta-analysis, it was observed that women's intention toward cervical cancer screening was low. Determinants identified included favorable attitude, direct subjective norm, and good knowledge of cervical cancer screening. To enhance women's intention for cervical cancer screening, strategies, and activities should be developed to positively influence perceptions among women and those who influence their decisions. Additionally, efforts to enhance public awareness about cervical cancer and its prevention are crucial.

Global, regional, and national burden of female cancers in women of child-bearing age, 1990-2021: analysis of data from the global burden of disease study 2021

Background

The global status of women's health is underestimated, particularly the burden on women of child-bearing age (WCBA). We aim to investigate the pattern and trend of female cancers among WCBA from 1990 to 2021.

Methods

We retrieved data from the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2021 on the incidence and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) of four major female cancers (breast, cervical, uterine, and ovarian cancer) among WCBA (15-49 years) in 204 countries and territories from 1990 to 2021. Estimated annual percentage changes (EAPC) in the age-standardised incidence and DALY rates of female cancers, by age and socio-demographic index (SDI), were calculated to quantify the temporal trends. Spearman correlation analysis was used to examine the correlation between age-standardised rates and SDI.

Findings

In 2021, an estimated 1,013,475 new cases of overall female cancers were reported globally, with a significant increase in age-standardised incidence rate (EAPC 0.16%), and a decrease in age-standardised DALY rate (-0.73%) from 1990 to 2021. Annual increase trends of age-standardised incidence rate were observed in all cancers, except for that in cervical cancer. Contrary, the age-standardised DALY rate decreased in all cancers. Breast and cervical cancers were prevalent among WCBA worldwide, followed by ovarian and uterine cancers, with regional disparities in the burden of four female cancers. In addition, the age-standardised incidence rates of breast, ovarian, and uterine cancers basically showed a consistent upward trend with increasing SDI, while both the age-standardised incidence and DALY rates in cervical cancer exhibited downward trends with SDI. Age-specific rates of female cancers increased with age in 2021, with the most significant changes observed in younger age groups, except for uterine cancer.

Interpretation

The rising global incidence of female cancers, coupled with regional variations in DALYs, underscores the urgent need for innovative prevention and healthcare strategies to mitigate the burden among WCBA worldwide.

Funding

This study was supported by the Science Foundation for Young Scholars of Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital (NO. 2022QN44 and NO. 2022QN18); the Key R&D Projects of Sichuan Provincial Department of Science and Technology (NO. 2023YFS0196); the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 82303701).

Barriers to Cervical Cancer Screening: A Systematic Review

Cervical cancer remains a significant global health concern, particularly in underserved populations. Despite the availability of effective screening methods, uptake remains suboptimal in many regions. This systematic review aims to synthesize the current evidence on barriers to cervical cancer screening across diverse populations and healthcare settings. A comprehensive search of electronic databases was conducted to identify relevant studies published till June 2024. Studies examining barriers to cervical cancer screening in various populations were included. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by two reviewers. A narrative synthesis approach was used to analyze and present the findings. Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria, encompassing a wide range of study designs and populations. Common barriers identified across studies included lack of knowledge and awareness, economic constraints, access issues, cultural and religious factors, fear and embarrassment, and distrust in healthcare systems. Population-specific barriers were observed among immigrant and ethnic minority women, individuals in low- and middle-income countries, indigenous women, and LGBQ women. Healthcare system factors, socioeconomic influences, psychological and individual factors, and interpersonal and community dynamics also played significant roles in screening participation. This review highlights the complex and multifaceted nature of barriers to cervical cancer screening. Findings suggest that interventions to improve screening rates should be comprehensive, culturally sensitive, and tailored to specific population needs. Addressing both individual-level and systemic barriers is crucial for enhancing cervical cancer screening uptake globally.

Cervical cancer prevention in Southern Africa: A review of national cervical cancer screening guidelines in the Southern African development community

BACKGROUND

Cervical cancer poses a significant burden, particularly in low-and-middle income countries (LMIC) with limited access to healthcare. High-income countries have made progress in prevention, while LMIC face unacceptably high incidence and mortality rates, often lacking official screening recommendations. We analysed the presence and content of cervical cancer screening guidelines for the secondary prevention of cervical cancer in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and compared it to the current World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for screening and treatment of cervical pre-cancer lesions for cervical cancer prevention.

METHODS

A review of national cervical cancer guidelines across the SADC region was conducted. Data was obtained from government websites, international cancer control platforms, and WHO resources. Search terms included "cervical cancer" and "cervical cancer control guidelines", amongst others. There were no limitations on publication years, and the most recent versions of the guidelines were analysed, regardless of language. Each guideline was assessed for specific screening and treatment recommendations, in relation to the current WHO guidelines. Points were assigned for each data element.

RESULTS

While most countries contributed data to this analysis there was a notable absence of adherence to the WHO guidelines. The most common screening method was naked eye visual inspection. There was a consensus on the age of screening initiation. Most countries recommended treatment by cryotherapy and loop excision.

CONCLUSION

Effective cervical cancer screening programmes, guided by evidence-based recommendations, can enhance early intervention and outcomes. This study highlights the need for standardized and evidence-based cervical cancer screening guidelines in the SADC region, to reduce the burden of cervical cancer and improve the health outcomes of women in these areas.

Self-Reported Cervical Cancer Screening Uptake Among Women of Reproductive Age in Zambia: Evidence from the 2021 Zambia Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment (ZAMPHIA) Survey

BACKGROUND

Despite Zambia implementing the World Health Organisation's (WHO) tri-pillar cervical cancer prevention goals 90-70-90 Prevent, Screen, and Treat, cervical cancer claims 2000 lives annually and reigns as the most common cancer among women, especially those living with HIV (WLHIV). Our study describes the national uptake of screening and treatment from the ZAMPHIA 2021 survey.

METHODS

Utilising a two-stage cluster sampling approach, the study included participants aged 15 years and older across Zambia's ten provinces. Data were collected on demographic traits, reproductive history, sexual behaviour, and cervical cancer prevention using a structured questionnaire, and HIV was diagnosed from biological samples. Women aged 15-49 were eligible for inclusion in the analysis. The primary outcome of interest was whether a woman self-reported being screened for cervical cancer. Sociodemographic characteristics were calculated for categorical variables using the SAS proc surveyfreq procedure, producing both raw and weighted estimates. The weighted estimates and their variance were generated using jackknife replicate weights for each record.

RESULTS

Of the 8801 surveyed women, 22.2% reported undergoing cervical cancer screening, the majority being aged between 35-49 years. Cervical cancer screening uptake was more likely among compared to HIV negative counterparts (aOR = 3.92, 95% CI: 3.10, 4.95), those aged 25-34 years (aOR = 1.76, 95% CI: 1.42, 2.21) or 35-49 years (aOR = 2.65, 95% CI: 2.11, 3.33) than younger and those with 1-4 (aOR = 2.16, 95% CI: 1.54, 3.02) or more than 5 live births (aOR = 1.98, 95% CI: 1.37, 2.87) than none. Marital status, WLHIV, education, and parity were other factors significantly associated with screening.

CONCLUSION

We report low cervical cancer screening uptake compared to the 70% target of WHO. The WHO's call for bolstered strategies and efforts to increase cervical cancer screening and treatment is timely and urgent. Therefore, ongoing messaging and health education among all women is key.