HPV PRIMARY CERVICAL SCREENING IN ENGLAND: WOMEN'S AWARENESS AND ATTITUDES

Abstract

Background

Primary HPV cervical screening is due to be implemented in England within the next 2years however, the acceptability of HPV testing as the primary screening test is unclear. This study explores women's awareness and attitudes towards HPV testing/screening.

Methods

Qualitative interviews (semi-structured and focus group) were conducted with forty-six women (aged 25-65years) from community and secondary care settings. Data was analysed using the inductive-framework method.

Results

Women were unaware that cervical screening currently includes HPV testing and lacked HPV-related knowledge. Emotions of shock, fear and anxiety were reported upon receiving a positive HPV result. For women in long-term relationships, the realisation that HPV is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) was seen as a barrier to primary HPV testing. Knowledge that HPV testing is a screening test to prevent cervical cancer did not change their attitudes. Women debated the need for continued screening following a negative result. Women feared judgement by the community if they participated with primary HPV screening because they were being tested for an STI, with the possible attendant perception that they had adopted a high-risk lifestyle in comparison to non-attenders.

Conclusions

The acceptability of HPV testing may be a limiting factor in encouraging participation with screening in the future.

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