Opportunities for cancer prevention at syringe services programs: acceptability of HPV self-sampling and vaccination among people who inject drugs.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Despite having a high risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections, people who inject drugs (PWID) often do not receive recommended HPV screenings due to barriers to healthcare. Guideline-based cervical HPV screening and vaccination can prevent cervical cancer. Low-cost, low-barrier methods for cancer screening and prevention are important for vulnerable communities such as PWID.

Methods

We examined acceptability of HPV self-sampling at a syringe services program (SSP). Participants with a cervix (n = 49) participated in patient education followed by a survey to assess willingness to perform HPV self-sampling versus standard of care.

Results

59% found self-sampling to be acceptable, citing privacy, ease, and quickness. Among those opting for HPV scre

SUBMITTER: Hinkes S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10967053 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature