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

• Main Authors: Samuel Hinkes (Author), Katrina Ciraldo (Author), Erin Kobetz (Author), Tyler S. Bartholomew (Author), Sarah Rinehart (Author), Nicolette Siringo (Author), Rebecca Barnett (Author), Neha Godbole (Author), Frantzia Jeanty (Author), Morgan Frederick (Author), Hansel E. Tookes (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: BMC, 2024-03-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.

Summary

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 screening delivered by a provider (n = 16), participants cited concerns about adequate sampling (81%) and test accuracy (75%). Notably, only 18% of participants reported complete HPV vaccination. Conclusion Cervical HPV self-sampling was acceptable to PWID. SSP-based efforts to provide preventative health services could place tools for cancer screening into the hands of PWID, a need-to-reach community.

Item Description

10.1186/s12954-024-00982-3
1477-7517