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Eraso, Yolanda, Stefler, Denes, Whitelock, Victoria, Clarke, Eleanor and Williams, Denitza (2026) Women’s initial preferences for self-sampling tests at home for cervical cancer screening in the UK: a mixed-methods analysis of demographic and behavioural factors. Public Health, 251 (106109). pp. 1-7. ISSN 0033-3506
Objectives:
To identify the demographic and behavioural factors associated with cervical screening preferences if a choice of test, health professional-collected samples or self-sampling at home, is implemented in the UK; and the behavioural barriers to self-sampling at home.
Study design:
A mixed-methods study of secondary data.
Methods:
We used data from the Cancer Research UK CAM + survey (February 2023) and performed a quantitative regression analysis to examine the associations between demographics, behavioural factors, screening behaviours, and screening preferences of the UK population aged 25–64. Unadjusted and multivariable adjusted logistic regression models were used. Qualitative content analysis was used for free text comments on behavioural barriers to self-sampling and mapped onto the Theoretical Domains Framework.
Results:
Analytical sample (n = 906). Test preference: Self-sampling (45.4 %); health professional-collected samples (41.1 %); and no test preference (13.6 %). Preference for self-sampling was significantly associated with older groups and psychosocial barriers (motivation and physical opportunity) regarding health professional-collected samples. Individuals with no test preference were the youngest and older groups, from low social grade and living with a partner. Behavioural barriers included test reliability and ability to do the test (motivation) and information needs (capability).
Conclusions:
Home seems a suitable setting for self-sampling, and it could alleviate many barriers faced to health professional-collected samples. Yet introducing test options did not allow all individuals a compelling basis for preference. Specific behaviour change techniques for identified barriers are proposed for this group. Ultimately, if choice is offered, future screening guidelines should consider how to address individuals with no test preference.
Available under License Creative Commons Attribution 4.0.
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