Assessing the acceptability of a vaginal self-sampling device in a Rural Parish of Cuenca, Ecuador

Abstract

Introduction: Cervical Cancer (CC) is a preventable and treatable disease if detected early, yet it remains a global health challenge. In Ecuador, CC is the second most common cancer; however, screening uptake remains suboptimal due to poor knowledge, low willingness, and limited access to healthcare. Traditionally, CC screening requires a healthcare professional, creating social and access barriers. Innovative techniques such as “self-sampling” (SS) for human papillomavirus (HPV) detection offer a promising alternative. Objective: This study evaluates the acceptability, attitudes, and user experience of a community-based SS program among a hard-to-reach population following a local educational session. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted in a rural community in Cuenca, Ecuador. Educational sessions were organized, after which women were offered the option to perform SS for HPV detection. Three questionnaires were administered to assess population characteristics, risk factors, and experiences toward the process. Results: Of the 130 participants, 90% accepted SS, and 10% rejected SS. A significant number of women reported that SS was faster and less painful compared to traditional Papanicolaou tests (P <.05). Conclusions: SS shows strong potential for increasing CC screening, especially in hard-to-reach areas, emphasizing the need to adapt screening programs to meet diverse community needs.