The acceptability of, and informational needs related to, self‐collection cervical screening among women of Indian descent living in Victoria, Australia: A qualitative study

Abstract

BackgroundIn July 2022, self‐collection became universally available as part of Australia's National Cervical Screening Program. This change aims to address screening inequities experienced among underscreened populations, including women of Indian descent. This study explored experiences of cervical screening, alongside the acceptability of self‐collection, among women of Indian descent living in Victoria, Australia. We also aimed to articulate the informational needs to promote self‐collection among this population.MethodsFive focus group discussions with 39 women living in Victoria were conducted in English (n = 3) and Punjabi (n = 2). Transcripts were thematically analysed, as informed by the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability.ResultsWomen were motivated by the choice to self‐collect, perceiving the ability to maintain modesty and greater autonomy as key enablers. Healthcare practitioners were seen as central in supporting patient‐centred models of care. Perceived barriers to self‐collection included concerns around its accuracy and women's confidence in collecting their own sample. Widespread dissemination of culturally tailored promotion strategies communicating concepts such as 'privacy' and 'accuracy' were suggested by women to promote self‐collection.ConclusionSelf‐collection was highly acceptable among women of Indian descent, particularly when assured of its accuracy, and sociocultural norms and previous screening experiences are considered. This study highlights the huge potential that self‐collection can play in increasing equity in Australia's cervical screening programme.Patient or Public ContributionMembers of the public were involved in focus group discussions. Findings were summarised and disseminated via a poster. A bicultural worker was involved in all stages of the research.

What young women (aged 24–29 years) in Australia think about self-collection for cervical screening: a brief report

“…These findings are consistent with other studies that have explored information needs related to self-collection for young women 7 in Australia and other priority populations, including women of culturally and linguistically diverse communities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and Indigenous women globally, women living rurally, aged >60 years or people identifying as LGBTQ, particularly at the intra-and inter-personal level. 7,9,[14][15][16][17][18][19] This study highlights the critical role of primary care providers (but not limited to GPs) 17,20,21 in providing accurate information to participants, and in facilitating and supporting an informed choice between screening options. 22 Mobile health technologies or social media could be leveraged by primary care to facilitate this communication through providing reminders to screen, automated or manual phone-calls, education or awareness, or peer-support.…”