'I'm here to save my life': a qualitative study of experiences navigating a cryotherapy referral system for human papillomavirus-positive women in western Kenya.

ABSTRACT:

Background

We sought to understand the beliefs, social norms and logistical factors that affect human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive women's uptake of cryotherapy treatment as part of a two-part cervical cancer screening strategy in rural Kenya.

Methods

In-depth interviews within a parent cluster-randomised trial.

Setting

Government-run county hospital in western Kenya.

Participants

273 of 372 (73.4%) HPV-positive women who underwent cryotherapy RESULTS: Many women feared that an HPV infection meant they would develop cancer. Almost all women reported initial fear of the treatment procedure, followed by a more positive experience than anticipated. Lacking funds for transportation to the treatment site was the most common barrier. Women felt that decentralised tr

SUBMITTER: Huchko M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6661588 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature