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

Background: In 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.

Methods: Five 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.

Results: Women 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.

Conclusion: Self-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 contribution: Members 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.

Keywords: Indian women; South Asian; acceptability; cervical cancer; cervical screening; self‐collection; self‐sampling.

Figure 1

Overview of results from focus group discussions with 39 Indian‐born women on their experiences with cervical screening and their perceptions, acceptability and informational needs of self‐collection cervical screening with subthemes aligned to the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability constructs.