Attitude to cervical cancer screening and human papillomavirus testing experience in self-sampled Nigerian women.

Background: Cervical cancer is a disease of major public health significance which can be prevented by adequate screening. Objective: This study assessed the level of cervical cancer knowledge, attitude to screening and human papillomavirus testing experience in women who self-sampled for cervical cancer screening. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study involving 790 women that had human papilloma virus (HPV) testing at the gynae-oncology unit of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital. Participants were assessed of their cervical cancer screening knowledge, attitude and HPV testing experience. High risk HPV (hr-HPV) nucleic acid testing was funded by the Clinton Health Access Initiative. Results: Majority (76.71%) of the respondents exhibited a high level of knowledge of cervical cancer, its causes, risk factors and prevention; and a positive experience with HPV self-sampling reported in 98.1%. hr-HPV positive rate was 13.4%. The most common reason (43%) for not having a cervical screening done was lack of a doctor's request. The most commonly known method of cervical screening by the respondents was Pap Smear test (55.31%). Conclusion: There is need for more education to improve the level of awareness and uptake of hr-HPV testing for cervical cancer in Lagos. Health care providers are not offering cervical cancer screening enough and this needs to be explored more in future studies.

Breast cancer screening patterns and associated factors in Iranian women over 40 years.

Screening is a key component of breast cancer early detection programs that can considerably reduce relevant mortality rates. The purpose of this study was to determine the breast cancer screening behavioral patterns and associated factors in women over 40 years of age. In this descriptive­analytical cross­sectional study, 372 over 40 years of age women visiting health centers in Tabriz, Iran, in 2023 were enrolled using cluster sampling. The data were collected using the sociodemographic characteristics questionnaire, breast cancer perception scale, health literacy for Iranian adults scale, and the Breast Cancer Screening Behavior Checklist. The obtained data were analyzed in SPSS version 16 using descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses). In total, 68.3% of all participants performed breast self­examination (BSE) (9.9% regularly, once per month), 60.2% underwent clinical breast examination (CBE) (8.9% regularly, twice per year), 51.3% underwent mammography (12.3% regularly, once per year), and 36.2% underwent sonography (3.8% regularly, twice per year). The findings also showed that women with benign breast diseases were more likely to undergo CBE (OR = 8.49; 95% CI 2.55 to 28.21; P < 0.001), mammography (OR = 8.84; 95% CI 2.98 to 10; P < 0.001), and sonography (OR = 18.84; 95% CI 6.40 to 53.33; P < 0.001) than others. Participants with low and moderate breast cancer perception scores were more likely to perform BSE than women with high breast cancer perception scores (OR = 2.20; 95% CI 1.21 to 4.00; P = 0.009) and women who had a history of benign breast disease were more likely to perform screening behaviors than others (OR = 2.47; 95% CI 1.27 to 4.80; P = 0.008). Women between the ages of 50 and 59 were more likely to undergo mammography (OR = 2.33; 95% CI 1.29 to 4.77; P = 0.008) and CBE (OR = 2.40; 95% CI 1.347 to 4.20; P = 0.003) than those ≥ 60 years. Given the low participation of women in regular breast cancer screening, it is suggested that health care providers highlight the need for screening at the specified intervals in their training programs. In addition, health authorities are recommended to use reminder systems to remind women, especially those over 40 years of age, of the best time for breast screening. Moreover, health care providers must seek to improve breast cancer knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of women who visit health centers, which are the first level of contact with the healthcare system for the general population.

Perceptions of the Impact of Comorbidity on the Bowel Cancer Screening Programme: Qualitative Study With Bowel Screening Participants and Staff.

INTRODUCTION: The impact of multiple health conditions on bowel cancer screening is currently unknown. We explored the impact of multiple health conditions on bowel cancer screening perceptions, experience and clinical management decisions following a positive stool test. METHODS: Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted remotely with Bowel Screening Wales staff (n = 16) stratified by regional location and role and with screening participants (n = 19) stratified by age, gender and comorbidity. Interview topics were guided by the Common-Sense Model. RESULTS: Screening participants, regardless of comorbidity status, placed great emphasis on the importance of early detection of cancer and completing the bowel screening process. Screening staff emphasised comorbidities in the clinical decision-making process; however, screening participants had low awareness of the impact that comorbidities can have on bowel screening. Participants describe how the presence of multiple health conditions can mask potential bowel symptoms and influence beliefs about follow-up. CONCLUSION: Bowel screening staff try to individualise the service to meet participant needs. The potential mismatch in screening staff and participant awareness and expectations of the bowel screening and diagnostic process needs to be addressed. Clearer and more regular communication with screening participants could support the screening process, particularly for those with significant coexisting health conditions or facing time delays. The possible masking effects and misattribution of symptoms because of comorbidities highlight an opportunity for education and raising awareness for screening participants and a potential area of focus for discussions in clinical consultations and staff training. PATIENT AND PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: Project funding included costs for patients and public contributors to be compensated for their contributions to the project, in line with current standards. A patient and public contributor was involved in the design of the study, including protocol development, and the interpretation of key findings and implications for patients, which are subsequently reflected within the manuscript.

Prostate Cancer Awareness in the Middle East: A Cross-Sectional International Study.

PURPOSE: Prostate cancer has emerged as a significant public health challenge in the Middle East, characterized by rising incidence rates and a concerning mortality-to-incidence ratio. Yet, despite these alarming trends, data regarding prostate cancer awareness in the region remain limited. To address this critical knowledge gap, this study investigates prostate cancer awareness within the Middle East. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was performed among 5,913 men age 40 years and older across 14 Middle Eastern countries between January 1, 2022, and July 31, 2023. Excluding those with a history of prostate cancer, a validated questionnaire assessed prostate cancer awareness. Data were analyzed using frequencies and percentages for categorical variables, medians and ranges for continuous variables, and Pearson chi-square analysis for relationships between education levels and awareness of prostate cancer. RESULTS: The survey achieved a 74.9% response rate, with 4,431 male participants. Regarding prostate cancer awareness, 83.8% of participants had heard of the disease. However, only 31.0% correctly identified it as the most common malignancy in men, and 21.8% believed it affects both sex. Awareness of screening was limited, with just 19.1% recognizing the prostate-specific antigen test's role. Additionally, participants had a pessimistic view, with a mean perception that 75% of patients with prostate cancer die from the disease, rather than from other causes. Higher education levels were associated with significantly increased awareness of prostate cancer (P < .001). CONCLUSION: This study reveals that while general awareness of the disease exists, crucial knowledge deficits regarding risk factors, screening, and prognosis are evident. Addressing these knowledge gaps through culturally tailored education may improve early detection rates, treatment outcomes, and ultimately reduce the burden of prostate cancer in the Middle East.

Perspective of obstetric care-providers on being involved in cervical cancer screening during antenatal care in the Netherlands.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to determine attitude of Dutch midwifes, gynecologists and general practitioners (GPs) towards involvement in antenatal cervical cancer screening (CCS) in the Netherlands. METHODS: In 2021, Dutch midwives, gynecologists, and GPs were offered a single digital questionnaire assessing perceived feasibility, benefits, and harms of antenatal CCS. RESULTS: A total of 6943 Questionnaires were send and response rate was 18% (N = 1260). Of all respondents, 78% considered antenatal CCS via obstetric care providers feasible. Most respondents (85%) agreed that offering CCS in person can increase motivation to attend. Most midwives (93%) considered that women would feel less encumbered if cervical sampling would be performed by obstetric care providers, rather than by GPs. CONCLUSION: Results indicate that introduction of antenatal CCS is considered feasible by a majority of Dutch midwifes, gynecologists, and GPs. Considered benefits include improved motivation to attend and reduced test related barriers.

Awareness of cancer and its associated factors for parents of adolescents and young adults: A cross-sectional study.

Cancer is a common health problem worldwide. Early cancer education for adolescents and young adults (AYAs) is important for the prevention or early detection of cancer. In this questionnaire-based cross-sectional study, we examined the cancer awareness among parents of AYAs. Japanese adults with junior or senior high school children were included in this study. The cancer awareness measure (CAM) was used to assess cancer awareness, and the survey was conducted in December 2021. Warning signs, barriers to seeking help, and risk factors were surveyed using an online anonymous questionnaire. In addition, personal information, the presence of other cancer survivors, attendance at cancer seminars, conversations with children about cancer, interest in cancer education for children, and previous cancer screening were surveyed. A t-test or Spearman correlation coefficient was used to compare the total CAM scores for the individual factors. The relationship between cancer-screening behavior and individual factors was analyzed using the χ2 test. In addition, multiple regression analysis or logistic regression analysis was used to identify the factors influencing cancer awareness or cancer-screening behavior. Responses were obtained from the 612 participants. The mean CAM score was 3.7 for cancer warning signs, 4.3 for barriers to seeking help, and 6.5 for risk factors. Cancer warning signs were associated with gender and the presence of a spouse, family member, or friend who had experienced cancer. Barriers to seeking help were associated with age, gender, and education, while risk factors were associated with gender, education, and conversations about cancer with children. Moreover, these scores were associated with each cancer screening behavior. Cancer awareness among Japanese adults with AYAs was influenced by gender, academic background, occupation, the presence of cancer survivors around them, and whether they had conversations about cancer with their children, as well as their cancer screening behavior.

Access to colorectal cancer screening for Pakistani immigrants in Norway - a qualitative study.

BACKGROUND: The Norwegian colorectal cancer (CRC) screening program started in May 2022. Inequalities in CRC screening participation are a challenge, and we expect that certain groups, such as immigrants, are at risk of non-participation. Prior to the start of the national screening program, a pilot study showed lower participation rates in CRC screening among immigrants from Pakistan. These immigrants are a populous group with a long history in Norway and yet have a relatively low participation rate also in other cancer screening programs. The purpose of this study was to identify and explore perspectives and factors influencing CRC screening participation among immigrants from Pakistan in Norway. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study we used a qualitative study design and conducted 12 individual interviews with Pakistani immigrants aged between 50 and 65 years. The participants varied in terms of gender, age, education, work, residence time in Norway and familiarity with the Norwegian language and culture. We performed thematic analysis with health literacy as a theoretical framework to understand Pakistani immigrants' perspectives on CRC screening. RESULTS: We identified four main themes: Health-related knowledge, the health care system, screening, and social factors. Within these themes we identified several factors that affect Pakistani immigrants' accessibility to CRC screening. These factors included knowledge of the causes and development of cancer, sources of health-related information, the general practitioner's role, understanding of screening and the intention behind it, language skills and religious beliefs. CONCLUSION: There are many factors influencing Pakistani immigrants' decision of participation in CRC screening. The roles of the general practitioner and adult children are particularly important. Key elements to improve accessibility to CRC screening and enable informed participation for Pakistani immigrants are measures that improve personal and organizational health literacy.

Patient Perspectives on a Patient-Facing Tool for Lung Cancer Screening.

BACKGROUND: Individuals with high risk for lung cancer may benefit from lung cancer screening, but there are associated risks as well as benefits. Shared decision-making (SDM) tools with personalized information may provide key support for patients. Understanding patient perspectives on educational tools to facilitate SDM for lung cancer screening may support tool development. AIM: This study aimed to explore patient perspectives related to a SDM tool for lung cancer screening using a qualitative approach. METHODS: We elicited patient perspectives by showing a provider-facing SDM tool. Focus group interviews that ranged in duration from 1.5 to 2 h were conducted with 23 individuals with high risk for lung cancer. Data were interpreted inductively using thematic analysis to identify patients' thoughts on and desires for a patient-facing SDM tool. RESULTS: The findings highlight that patients would like to have educational information related to lung cancer screening. We identified several key themes to be considered in the future development of patient-facing tools: barriers to acceptance, preference against screening and seeking empowerment. One further theme illustrated effects of patient-provider relationship as a limitation to meeting lung cancer screening information needs. Participants also noted several suggestions for the design of technology decision aids. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that patients desire additional information on lung cancer screening in advance of clinical visits. However, there are several issues that must be considered in the design and development of technology to meet the information needs of patients for lung cancer screening decisions. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: Patients, service users, caregivers or members of the public were not involved in the study design, conduct, analysis or interpretation of the data. However, clinical experts in health communication provided detailed feedback on the study protocol, including the focus group approach. The study findings contribute to a better understanding of patient expectations for lung cancer screening decisions and may inform future development of tools for SDM.

Advancing Colorectal Cancer Detection With Blood-Based Tests: Qualitative Study and Discrete Choice Experiment to Elicit Population Preferences.

BACKGROUND: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most deadly form of cancer, inducing an estimated 1.9 million incidence cases and 0.9 million deaths worldwide in 2020. Despite the availability of screening tests, their uptake remains suboptimal. However, blood-based tests that look for signs of cancer-specific markers in the body are increasingly available as an alternative for more invasive tests for cancer. Compared with existing tests, the benefits of blood-based tests for CRC include not needing pretest preparation, stool handling, and dietary or medication restrictions. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to explore the population's preferences for CRC screening tests, with a focus on blood-based tests, and investigate the factors influencing test uptake. METHODS: We used a mixed methods approach, combining semistructured interviews and a discrete choice experiment (DCE) survey. Interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify salient attributes for CRC screening tests. These attributes informed the design of the DCE survey. The DCE data were analyzed using mixed logit and mixed-mixed multinomial logit models. RESULTS: Qualitative findings from 30 participants revealed that participants preferred blood-based tests due to their perceived low risk, minimal pain, and ease of sample collection. However, concerns about the test's lower accuracy were also expressed. The DCE survey was completed by 1189 participants. In the mixed logit model, participants demonstrated a stronger preference for blood-based tests over a 2-day stool-based test. The mixed-mixed multinomial logit model identified 2 classes, strong supporters and weak supporters, for CRC screening. Weak supporters, but not strong supporters, had a higher preference for blood-based tests. Women, ethnic Chinese, and people aged 40 to 60 years were more likely to be weak supporters. Both models highlighted the high influence of cost and test sensitivity on participants' preferences. Transitioning from a 2-day stool-based test to a blood-based test, assuming a national screening program at a base price of Singapore $5 (US $3.75), was estimated to have the potential to increase the relative uptake by 5.9% (95% CI 3.6%-8.2%). CONCLUSIONS: These findings contribute to our understanding of CRC screening preferences and provide insights into the factors driving test uptake. This study highlights the perceived advantages of blood-based tests and identifies areas of concern regarding their accuracy. Further research is needed to determine the actual increase in uptake rate when blood-based tests are made available.

Disparity in cognitive factors related to cancer screening uptake based on the theory of planned behavior.

INTRODUCTION: Early detection of cancer is a highly effective way to decrease cancer-related deaths. The purpose of this study was to determine the disparity in cognitive factors related to cancer screening uptake based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB). METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, conducted in Kermanshah County, the west of Iran, during 2019, a total of 1760 people aged 30 to 75 years old, were randomly selected to participate voluntarily in the study. Participants filled out a questionnaire including the socio demographic variables, socioeconomic status (SES), TPB variables, and cancer screening uptake behaviors. RESULTS: The mean age of respondents was 45.28. 44.96% of the participants had undergone cancer screening at least once. Socioeconomic status (SES) and gender had the most significant impact on the disparity in cancer screening uptake, with contributions of 74.64% and 22.25% respectively. Women were 8.63 times more likely to be screened than men. Participants with a family history of cancer had a 2.84 times higher chance of being screened. Single individuals were significantly less likely to be screened compared to married individuals. The concentration index for attitude, subjective norms (SN), perceived behavior control (PBC), behavior intention, and cancer screening uptake was 0.0735, 0.113, 0.333, 0.067, and 0.132 respectively. Intention (Beta = 0.225 and P: < 0.001) is a significant predictor of cancer screening behaviors. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study are highly valuable for health policymakers in Iran. They emphasize the significance of creating, executing, and assessing campaigns that promote intention, PBC and SN, particularly among disadvantaged individuals. By doing so, we can effectively decrease the disparity in cancer screening rates. It is crucial to prioritize men, single individuals, and disadvantaged groups in cancer screening promotion programs. This knowledge can be utilized to develop an intervention that is guided by theory and supported by evidence, with the aim of increasing cancer screening rates and minimizing disparities.

Questionnaire survey on cervical cancer screening and HPV awareness among patients at a local cancer center in Japan.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia is increasing in Japan. Although human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and cancer screening are crucial in preventing cancer-related mortality, the cervical cancer screening rate in Japan was only approximately 43.6% in 2022. This study aimed to conduct an epidemiological analysis of cervical cancer by collecting data from individual patients. METHODS: A questionnaire survey was administered to patients who visited our hospital between January 2017 and July 2023 owing to abnormal cervical cytological findings or a cancer diagnosis. Patients answered questions regarding their history of cervical cancer screening as well as their knowledge of HPV and cervical cancer. RESULTS: During the study period, 471 patients participated in the survey, with 35 declining to participate. Patients with Stage 1b1-4b primarily sought medical attention due to self-reported symptoms (P < 0.001); however, they were less likely to have undergone cervical cancer screening (P < 0.001). Additionally, older patients were less likely to be aware of the association of HPV with cervical and other cancers. Notably, 28 of the 129 patients with stage 1b1-4b cancer underwent cervical cancer screening within 2 years. The tumor location within the endocervical canal emerged as a significant factor contributing to the difficulty for an accurate diagnosis of precancerous or cervical cancer during cervical screening. Furthermore, non- squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) histology was another possible factor. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest the need to widely disseminate information regarding the significance of cancer screening to increase cancer screening rates. Moreover, establishing strategies for improving the accuracy of detecting lesions during screening for non-SCC and endocervical canal tumors is crucial.

Factors affecting cancer screening perception in Turkish women: the role of health literacy.

It is suggested that individuals with limited health literacy have less awareness about cancer and screening methods. However, there is a paucity of evidence regarding the relationship between cancer screening perception and health literacy levels among women. This study investigates the determinants of cancer screening perceptions in Turkish women, with a particular emphasis on the influence of health literacy. Employing a cross-sectional design, the study involved 428 women aged 18-69. Data were collected via online questionnaires. Hierarchical regression analysis was utilized to assess the effects of distinct variables on cancer screening perceptions. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were employed to validate and ensure reliability. The results indicated that the constructed hierarchical regression model explicated around 10% of the variance in cancer screening perceptions. Among the various factors examined, health literacy emerged as the most potent predictor of screening perceptions. Individuals possessing higher health literacy demonstrated more favorable attitudes toward cancer screening. Additionally, age surfaced as another notable determinant, with advanced age correlating positively with awareness and receptiveness to screening. This research reveals the pivotal role of health literacy in shaping how Turkish women perceive cancer screening. While a few factors have an impact, the study highlights the urgent need to elevate health literacy levels to foster heightened awareness and engagement in cancer screening programs. The study's findings offer valuable guidance for devising targeted interventions to address disparities in cancer screening perception and participation, particularly among women in low- to middle-income countries such as Turkey.

Attitudes toward colorectal cancer and colonoscopy in Palestine: a questionnaire-based study.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a frequent cause of cancer-related mortality in the Palestinian population. This cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2019 to March 2020 and examined attitudes toward CRC and colonoscopy, as well as the interplay between both. Participants were recruited using convenience sampling from public spaces, governmental hospitals, and primary healthcare centers across 11 governorates in Palestine. Displaying a positive attitude was defined as agreeing on at least the median number of questions related to CRC (5 of 11 questions) or colonoscopy (6 of 10 questions). A total of 4623 participants were included. Most participants agreed that 'early detection of CRC increases the possibility of more effective treatment' (n = 4161, 89.7%). Similarly, the majority of participants agreed on 'preferring a physician with a gender similar to the participants to perform the colonoscopy' (n = 3738, 80.9%) and 'willingness to have colonoscopy even if the participant had to pay for it' (n = 3727, 80.6%). Furthermore, 3115 participants (67.4%) demonstrated positive attitudes toward CRC, while 2540 participants (55.0%) displayed similar attitudes toward colonoscopy. Participants from the West Bank and Jerusalem were more likely than those from the Gaza Strip to display positive attitudes toward colonoscopy (59.2% vs. 48.9%). Participants with positive attitudes toward CRC were more likely to also display positive attitudes toward colonoscopy and vice versa. About two thirds of study participants exhibited positive attitudes toward CRC, and 55.0% displayed positive attitudes toward colonoscopy. There was a reciprocal relationship between having positive attitudes toward CRC and colonoscopy.

Cervical cancer trend in the Republic of Kazakhstan and attitudes towards cervical cancer screening in urban and rural areas.

Cervical cancer (CC) continues to be a significant global health issue, which in part can be attributed to disparities in access to CC screening services. This study aims to conduct a trend of CC in Kazakhstan and to compare attitudes towards the screening program between women living in urban and rural areas. In the first stage, we conducted a trend study of CC indicators in Kazakhstan using official statistics. In the second stage, a cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured questionnaire to assess adherence to screening. The trend study reveals a decline in cervical cancer mortality rates (from 7.15 to 5.93 per 100,000 female inhabitants) over the period studied, while the incidence remains stable (from 18.51 to 19.38 per 100,000 female inhabitants). Regional variations in Period Prevalence rates were observed. Significant differences were found in screening participation rates between urban n = 41 (74%) and rural n = 23 (38%) women, p < 0.001, as well as awareness of the screening program (urban: n = 15 (27%), rural: n = 35 (58%), p < 0.001). The trend study highlights a decrease in cervical cancer mortality rates over the specified period, accompanied by a consistent incidence rate. Additionally, regional disparities in period prevalence rates of cervical cancer were observed. The primary factor contributing to the low adherence of rural women to screening was found to be a lack of awareness regarding the screening program. Therefore, increasing awareness about the importance of screening is crucial for improving adherence rates among rural women in Kazakhstan.

The levels of women's awareness, experience, acceptability and preference for Vaginal Human Papillomavirus (HPV) self-sampling in three provinces of China: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: The primary screening technique for precancerous lesions and cervical cancer is human papillomavirus (HPV) testing, and HPV self-sampling has been shown to be consistent with clinician sampling in terms of the accuracy of the results and may improve cervical cancer screening rates. The aim of this study was to understand the level of awareness, experience, acceptability, and preference for vaginal HPV self-sampling among women in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai, China, and to analyze the possible influencing factors to determine the feasibility of implementing self-sampling. METHODS: Overall, 1793 women were included in the data analysis. A self-administered questionnaire was utilized. In addition to descriptive analysis, univariate and multivariate analyses were used to explore the associations between sociodemographic features, history of cervical cancer screening, and the level of awareness, experience, acceptability, and preference for HPV self-samples. RESULTS: The participants' level of awareness of and experience with HPV self-sampling were moderate. A total of 88.8% of participants rated the acceptability as "high", and self-sampling was preferred by 64.2% of them for cervical cancer screening. People aged 45 to 54 years showed a preference for both clinician sampling(OR = 1.762 (1.116-2.163)) and self-sampling (OR = 1.823 (1.233-2.697)). Those who had graduated from high school or above (OR = 2.305 (1.517-3.503), OR = 2.432 (1.570-3.768), OR = 3.258 (2.024-5.244)) preferred clinician-sampling, and those with a bachelor's degree or above (OR = 1.664 (1.042-2.657)) preferred self-sampling. Middle- and high-income individuals showed no preference for either sampling method (OR < 1). CONCLUSIONS: HPV self-sampling is widely accepted, but awareness, experience and preferences need to be improved. These results may help to adjust public health strategies for the early inclusion of HPV self-sampling as a screening method in national initiatives to prevent cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer screening and vaccination acceptability and attitudes among Arab American women in Southeastern Michigan: a qualitative study.

Among Arab-American women in Michigan, rates of cervical cancer screening are lower than those in non-Hispanic White and Black women in the state. A deep understanding of the Arab community's perspective on cervical cancer screening is needed to address the disparity in rates across populations in Michigan. Arab and Chaldean women across Michigan were invited to participate in Zoom-based focus groups to understand the attitudes, acceptability, and barriers of cervical cancer screening among this population. Four focus groups with a total of 19 women aged 30 to 61 were conducted. The focus groups were conducted in English, Arabic, or both languages. The guided discussion was focused on knowledge of cervical cancer and Human papillomavirus (HPV) and its transmission, attitudes towards HPV vaccination, and attitudes towards cervical cancer screening. HPV self-sampling as an alternative to traditional provider-based screening was specifically discussed as this has been proposed as a way to increase screening in hard-to-reach populations. The conversations revealed insights related to barriers at the individual and community levels for screening and vaccination, attitudes towards preventive health care including screening, a need for accessible women's health literature, and health education. The women also discussed vaccine hesitancy related to HPV and COVID-19, suggesting a need for targeted community interventions.

The effect of educational intervention based on health belief model on colorectal cancer screening behaviors.

BACKGROUND: Colorectal cancer is the second most prevalent cause of death from malignancies globally. The present study was conducted targeting the influence of an educational intervention based on the health belief model (HBM) on colorectal cancer screening behaviors in people 50 years old and older. METHODS: All 134 samples were included in this quasi-experimental study from Fasa City Health Service Center, equal halves were random into experimental group and control group. The data collection tool was a questionnaire that contained questions on demographic variables, knowledge, and HBM constructs (perceived sensitivity, perceived intensity, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, self-efficacy, and screening behaviors). Both groups answered the questionnaire before and two months following the intervention. There were six 90-minute instruction sessions for the intervention group. SPSS 22 and descriptive and analytical tests (independent t-test, paired t-test, and Chi-square test) were used for data analysis (P < 0.05). RESULTS: 59 women and 75 men took part in this study. A majority of participants were married and had at least high school diploma. The findings indicated that the mean scores for knowledge, each of the HBM's constructs, and cancer screening behaviors did not differ significantly from one another before the intervention between the test group and the control group. However, post the intervention, the intervention group exhibited a significant rise in all mentioned dimensions. CONCLUSION: In light of the outcomes, the application of the HBM on colorectal cancer screening behaviors in people 50 years and older was successful. This approach might serve as a helpful foundation for planning, carrying out, and overseeing colorectal cancer screening programs.

Cancer health awareness through screening and education: A community approach to healthy equity.

BACKGROUND: The Cancer Health Awareness through screeNinG and Education (CHANGE) initiative delivers cancer awareness education with an emphasis on modifiable risk factors and navigation to screening for prostate, breast, and colorectal cancers to residents of public housing communities who experience significant negative social determinants of health. METHODS: Residents of five communities participated. Community advisory board members were recruited and provided feedback to local environmental change projects, recruitment, and community engagement at each site. At each site, four education sessions were provided by trained facilitators on cancer risk factors and etiology, racial disparities, eligibility for cancer screening, and participation in clinical trials. Attendance, knowledge, attitudes and beliefs about cancer, and height, weight, and waist circumference were measured at baseline and 1-week post-CHANGE sessions. RESULTS: 90 residents (60% 65 and older years old, 33% male, 60% High School education, 93% AA) participated in the program. 95% completed post-intervention evaluation. Participants were eligible for breast (n = 12), prostate (n = 15), and colorectal screening (n = 25) based on American Cancer Society guidelines, and 22 for tobacco cessation; 21 participants accepted navigation assistance for these services. At post-test, participants significantly increased in knowledge and behaviors around obesity/overweight risk for cancer, nutrition, and physical activity. Colorectal, prostate, and breast cancer knowledge scores also increased, but were not significant. CONCLUSIONS: CHANGE participants demonstrated improved health knowledge and intentions to improve their modifiable health behaviors. Participants reported being motivated and confident in seeking preventive care and satisfaction with community engagement efforts. Replication of this project in similar communities may improve knowledge and health equity among underserved populations.

Tobacco quitline staffs' knowledge and attitudes about connecting quitline callers to lung cancer screening educational materials.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of training quitline staff in lung cancer screening (LCS) on knowledge and attitudes towards connecting quitline callers to LCS educational materials. METHODS: We conducted a pre-post evaluation within a larger implementation project in the U.S. to support LCS among quitline callers. From July 2020 to June 2021, staff from four quitline service providers completed surveys before and after training on LCS knowledge. After training, staff completed the acceptability of intervention measure, intervention appropriateness measure, and feasibility of the intervention measure. RESULTS: A total of 245 staff completed the initial demographic survey (analytic sample), 130 completed the pre-training survey, and 225 completed the post-training survey. Staff were on average 47.4 years old and 76.7% were female. LCS knowledge improved after the training (n = 120, mean difference = +26.5%, 95% CI 21.6, 31.4, p < 0.001). Overall, staff felt that connecting quitline callers to LCS education materials was acceptable (M = 4.0, SD = 0.8), appropriate (M = 4.1, SD = 0.7), and feasible (M = 4.0, SD = 0.7). CONCLUSIONS: Receiving training about LCS eligibility and the benefits and harms of screening improved LCS knowledge among quitline staff. Quitline staff found that connecting callers with LCS educational materials is acceptable, appropriate, and feasible, and aligned with their primary mission.

Scoping review protocol on the perception and attitude of women on methods for collecting cervicovaginal samples for human papillomavirus testing in sub-Saharan Africa.

INTRODUCTION: Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) regions have the highest burden of cervical cancer (CC), accounting for nearly a quarter of global mortality. Many women in SSA are reluctant to access CC screening because they are uncomfortable exposing their private parts to healthcare providers. The perception of women who have experienced self-sampling in SSA is yet to be reviewed. This scoping review will explore the literature on the perception and attitude of women towards methods of collecting cervicovaginal samples for human papillomavirus (HPV) testing in SSA. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: An extensive search using the Arksey and O'Malley framework will be conducted. The search criteria will be limited to original research conducted in community or clinical settings in SSA within the last 10 years. Four databases, namely, PUBMED, Cochrane, African Journals Online and Google Scholar, will be searched. Two independent persons (UIAB and DOO) will screen the titles and abstracts and later full texts using population, intervention, comparison and outcome criteria. IOMB will serve as a tiebreaker whenever there is no agreement on the choice of eligibility criteria. The screening process will be presented using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses for the scoping review flow format. The descriptive analysis of eligible studies for scoping reviews will be summarised. We will describe themes of attitude and perception covering pain, embarrassment, privacy and comfortability, willingness to self-sample, anxiety and confidence. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This is a scoping review protocol and does not require ethical approval. Findings from this review will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, the production of policy briefs, and presentations at local and international conferences.