Metrics details. We aimed to explore perceptions and acceptability of HPV self-sampling-based cervical cancer screening among community members and health professionals in rural northwest Ethiopia and to identify preferences and socio-cultural barriers regarding self-sampling in order to design a suitable high-coverage screening intervention for a rural African setting.
Four community-based focus group discussions FGD were conducted in the rural district of Dabat, Northwest Ethiopia, each comprising 8 to 14 female participants, counting a total of 41 participants. The groups were homogenously composed in terms of their socio-economic status in the community. They included health centre attendees, community members, nurses and health development army leaders HDAL.
Two qualitative data collection experts conducted the interviews in the local language, using a FGD guide with several thematic areas. All participants granted written informed consent prior to the conduct of the interviews.
Emerging themes included i misconceptions and low awareness about cervical cancer among community residents and primary health care providers in rural northwest Ethiopia, ii stigmatization and social exclusion of affected women, iii delay in seeking of health care due to poor access and availability of services, and lacking of a concept of early cancer prevention, iv need of spousal permission, v fear of financial burden and vi fear of social marginalization.
The self-sampling device was regarded to be acceptable and was judged to be easy to use for most women. The existing Ethiopian health care structure could facilitate a community approach.
