ASPO Abstracts
Cervical Cancer Screening Needs and Preferences among Sexual Minority Women
Category: Early Detection & Risk Prediction, Lifestyles Behavior, Energy Balance & Chemoprevention
Conference Year: 2018
Abstract Body:
Background: Sexual minority women are less likely to obtain up-to-date cervical cancer screening compared with their heterosexual counterparts. We are currently conducting a nationwide survey to better understand the cancer screening needs and preferences of lesbian, bisexual, and queer (LBQ) women. Methods: Currently, 69 sexual minority women ages 23 to 70 have completed the survey. The survey was administered online via REDCap, in partnership with the National LGBT Cancer Network. Descriptive statistics were calculated to assess sociodemographic characteristics, screening history, and screening preferences. We also conducted logistic regression analyses to evaluate potential associations between sociodemographic characteristics, screening history, and screening preferences. Results: The sample was 75% non-Hispanic White, 4% Hispanic, 4% non-Hispanic Black, 3% mixed race, and 3% other races. Almost all participants (93%) reported having some form of health insurance, and the majority of participants reported having up-to-date cervical cancer screening (77%). Nearly a third (29%) of participants reported avoiding preventive care due to discrimination. The majority of participants (67%) reported they would be willing to complete HPV self-sampling, an alternate form of cervical cancer screening that can be done in private using a device that is similar to a tampon. When asked about screening preferences, 33% of participants preferred Pap smear screening, 30% of participants preferred HPV self-sampling, and 26% of participants reported they would prefer either form of screening. Participants who reported greater avoidance of preventive care due to discrimination were more likely to prefer HPV self- sampling (OR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.08-3.29, p = 0.026). Conclusion: Cervical cancer screening remains a significant issue for sexual minority women. Women who are not up-to-date for cervical cancer screening and/or who have experienced discrimination when previously seeking preventive care may benefit from the option of HPV self- sampling. The feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy of this alternative screening method warrants further exploration among sexual minority women.
Keywords: Sexual minority women; LBQ; Cervical cancer screening; HPV self-sampling