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Mosquera I, Barajas CB, Theriault H, Benitez Majano S, Zhang L, Maza M, Luciani S, Carvalho AL, Basu P. Assessment of barriers to cancer screening and interventions implemented to overcome these barriers in 27 Latin American and Caribbean countries. Int J Cancer 2024. [PMID: 38648380 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.34950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
There is a gap in the understanding of the barriers to cancer screening participation and complying with downstream management in the Community of Latin American and Caribbean states (CELAC). Our study aimed to assess barriers across the cancer screening pathway from the health system perspective, and interventions in place to improve screening in CELAC. A standardized tool was used to collect information on the barriers across the screening pathway through engagement with the health authorities of 27 member states of CELAC. Barriers were organized in a framework adapted from the Tanahashi conceptual model and consisted of the following dimensions: availability of services, access (covering accessibility and affordability), acceptability, user-provider interaction, and effectiveness of services (which includes governance, protocols and guidelines, information system, and quality assurance). The tool also collected information of interventions in place, categorized in user-directed interventions to increase demand, user-directed interventions to increase access, provider-directed interventions, and policy and system-level interventions. All countries prioritized barriers related to the information systems, such as the population register not being accurate or complete (N = 19; 70.4%). All countries implemented some kind of intervention to improve cancer screening, group education being the most reported (N = 23; 85.2%). Training on screening delivery was the most referred provider-directed intervention (N = 19; 70.4%). The study has identified several barriers to the implementation of cancer screening in the region and interventions in place to overcome some of the barriers. Further analysis is required to evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions in achieving their objectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Mosquera
- Early Detection, Prevention & Infections Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | | | - Hannah Theriault
- Early Detection, Prevention & Infections Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - Sara Benitez Majano
- Pan American Health Organization, Washington, DC, USA
- Inequalities in Cancer Outcomes Network, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Li Zhang
- Early Detection, Prevention & Infections Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - Mauricio Maza
- Pan American Health Organization, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Andre L Carvalho
- Early Detection, Prevention & Infections Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - Partha Basu
- Early Detection, Prevention & Infections Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
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Oommen AM, Isaac R, Paul B, Weller D, Finkel ML, Thomas A, Ram TS, H. R. P, Cherian AG, Thomas V, Sadan V, Siva R, Rose A, Marcus TA, Jeyapaul S, K. SR, Malini T, N. S, Jebaraj P, John NO, Ramesh C, Raj C. JJ, Kumar S. R, B. V. B, Dorathy P. I, Murali V, N. P, K. K, Ranjani D. P. Strategies for primary HPV test-based cervical cancer screening programme in resource-limited settings in India: Results from a quasi-experimental pragmatic implementation trial. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301385. [PMID: 38578742 PMCID: PMC10997089 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In order for low and middle income countries (LMIC) to transition to Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) test based cervical cancer screening, a greater understanding of how to implement these evidence based interventions (EBI) among vulnerable populations is needed. This paper documents outcomes of an implementation research on HPV screening among women from tribal, rural, urban slum settings in India. METHODS A mixed-method, pragmatic, quasi-experimental trial design was used. HPV screening on self-collected cervical samples was offered to women aged 30-60 years. Implementation strategies were 1) Assessment of contextual factors using both qualitative and quantitative methods like key informant interviews (KII), focus group discussions (FGDs), pre-post population sample surveys, capacity assessment of participating departments 2) enhancing provider capacity through training workshops, access to HPV testing facility, colposcopy, thermal ablation/cryotherapy at the primary health care centers 3) community engagement, counselling for self-sampling and triage process by frontline health care workers (HCWs). Outcomes were assessed using the RE-AIM (Reach, Effectiveness, adoption, implementation, maintenance) framework. RESULTS Screening rate in 8 months' of study was 31.0%, 26.7%, 32.9%, prevalence of oncogenic HPV was 12.1%, 3.1%, 5.5%, compliance to triage was 53.6%, 45.5%, 84.6% in tribal, urban slum, rural sites respectively. Pre-cancer among triage compliant HPV positive women was 13.6% in tribal, 4% in rural and 0% among urban slum women. Unique challenges faced in the tribal setting led to programme adaptations like increasing honoraria of community health workers for late-evening work and recalling HPV positive women for colposcopy by nurses, thermal ablation by gynaecologist at the outreach camp site. CONCLUSIONS Self-collection of samples combined with HCW led community engagement activities, flexible triage processes and strengthening of health system showed an acceptable screening rate and better compliance to triage, highlighting the importance of identifying the barriers and developing strategies suitable for the setting. TRIAL REGISTRATION CTRI/2021/09/036130.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anu Mary Oommen
- Community Health Department, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Rita Isaac
- RUHSA Department, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Biswajit Paul
- RUHSA Department, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - David Weller
- University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Madelon L. Finkel
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Anitha Thomas
- Department of Gynaecologic Oncology, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Thomas Samuel Ram
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Prashanth H. R.
- RUHSA Department, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Anne George Cherian
- Community Health Department, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Vinotha Thomas
- Department of Gynaecologic Oncology, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Vathsala Sadan
- College of Nursing Community Health, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Rajeswari Siva
- College of Nursing Community Health, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Anuradha Rose
- Community Health Department, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Tobey Ann Marcus
- Community Health Department, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Shalini Jeyapaul
- Community Health Department, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Tabeetha Malini
- Community Health Department, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Surenthiran N.
- RUHSA Department, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Paul Jebaraj
- RUHSA Department, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Neenu Oliver John
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Charles Ramesh
- RUHSA Department, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Rakesh Kumar S.
- RUHSA Department, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Balaji B. V.
- RUHSA Department, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Irene Dorathy P.
- College of Nursing Community Health, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Valliammal Murali
- RUHSA Department, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Prema N.
- College of Nursing Community Health, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Kavitha K.
- Community Health Department, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Priya Ranjani D.
- Community Health Department, Christian Medical College Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
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Kovačević IN, Vujović A, Stanišić M, Vuković-Leković J, Lansdorp-Vogelaar I, Mlakar DN, Senore C, Józwiak-Hagymásy J, Széles G, Vokó Z, Csanádi M. Roadmap to improve the organized cancer screening programs - The case of colorectal cancer screening in Montenegro. J Cancer Policy 2024; 39:100464. [PMID: 38104712 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpo.2023.100464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Implementation of organized cancer screening programs comes with many challenges and barriers, which may inhibit the achievement of the screening activities' desired benefits. In this paper we outline a plan for improving the colorectal cancer (CRC) screening system in Montenegro. METHODS We formulated a roadmap, which was generally defined as a country-specific strategic plan to improve cancer screening programs. The roadmap development was an iterative, step-by-step process. First, we described the current screening program, then identified and described key barriers, and finally proposed actions to overcome them. Multiple sources of information (e.g., documents, expert opinions) were collected and processed by local and international stakeholders. RESULTS The CRC screening program was implemented between 2013-2019 by gradually increasing the invitation of the target population. Key barriers of the implementation were defined: 1) Lack of colonoscopy capacity in the northern part of the country; 2) Inadequate information technology systems; 3) Inadequate public promotion of screening. The defined actions were related to overcoming lack of available resources (e.g., financial, human and technological), to improve the policy environment and the knowledge, and to facilitate information sharing. CONCLUSION The collaboration between local stakeholders of CRC screening and researchers experienced in planning and evaluating screening programs resulted in the first comprehensive description of CRC screening in Montenegro, detailed understanding of key barriers that emerged during implementation and a carefully designed list of actions. The implementation of these actions and the evaluation of whether barriers were solved will be captured in the upcoming period by maintaining this collaboration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Iris Lansdorp-Vogelaar
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Carlo Senore
- Epidemiology and screening Unit - CPO, University Hospital Città della Salute e della Scienza, Turin, Italy
| | | | | | - Zoltán Vokó
- Syreon Research Institute, Budapest, Hungary; Center for Health Technology Assessment, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
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Zielonke N, Senore C, Ponti A, Csanadi M, de Koning HJ, Heijnsdijk EAM, van Ravesteyn NT. Overcoming barriers: Modelling the effect of potential future changes of organized breast cancer screening in Italy. J Med Screen 2023; 30:134-141. [PMID: 36762395 PMCID: PMC10399099 DOI: 10.1177/09691413231153568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Organized breast cancer screening may not achieve its full potential due to organizational and cultural barriers. In Italy, two identified barriers were low attendance in Southern Italy and, in Italy as a whole, underscreening and overscreening in parts of the eligible population. The objective of this study was to identify potential changes to overcome these barriers and to quantify their costs and effects. METHODS To assess the impact of potential measures to improve breast cancer screening in Italy, we performed an evaluation of costs and effects for increasing adherence for Southern Italy and harmonizing screening intervals (biennial screening) for the whole of Italy, using an online tool (EU-TOPIA evaluation tool) based on the MIcrosimulation SCreening ANalysis (MISCAN) model. RESULTS Increasing adherence in Southern Italy through investing in mobile screening units has an acceptable cost-effectiveness ratio of €9531 per quality-adjusted life year gained. Harmonizing the screening interval by investing in measures to reduce opportunistic screening and simultaneously investing in mobile screening units to reduce underscreening is predicted to gain 1% fewer life-years, while saving 19% of total screening costs compared to the current situation. CONCLUSIONS Increasing adherence in Southern Italy and harmonizing the screening interval could result in substantial improvements at acceptable costs, or in the same benefits at lower costs. This example illustrates a systematic approach that can be easily applied to other European countries, as the online tools can be used by stakeholders to quantify effects and costs of a broad range of specific barriers, and ways to overcome them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Zielonke
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carlo Senore
- Epidemiology and screening Unit – CPO, University Hospital Città della Salute e della Scienza, Turin, Italy
| | - Antonio Ponti
- Epidemiology and screening Unit – CPO, University Hospital Città della Salute e della Scienza, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Harry J de Koning
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eveline A M Heijnsdijk
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nicolien T van Ravesteyn
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Oommen AM, Basu P, Cherian AG, Zomawia E, Manoharan R, Pricilla RA, Viswanathan V, Oldenburg B, Subramanian S, Hawkes D, Saville M, Brotherton JML. Protocol for the formative phase of a trial (SHE-CAN) to test co-designed implementation strategies for HPV-based cervical screening among vulnerable women in two diverse settings in India. Implement Sci Commun 2023; 4:62. [PMID: 37291627 PMCID: PMC10249153 DOI: 10.1186/s43058-023-00436-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In view of the WHO's call for the elimination of cervical cancer as a public health problem, and current low screening coverage, Indian policy makers need evidence on how to effectively implement cervical screening programmes, ensuring equity in access. Our study will follow the INSPIRE implementation framework to co-design and test HPV-based screening approaches in two states of India with different health system organisation, based on understanding the status of screening as currently implemented, readiness and challenges to transition to HPV-based screening, and preferences of key stakeholders. Here, we describe our protocol for the formative phase of the study (SHE-CAN). METHODS The study population includes women from vulnerable populations, defined as residents of tribal areas, rural villages, and urban slums, in the states of Mizoram and Tamil Nadu. The baseline assessment will use mixed methods research, with desktop reviews, qualitative studies, and surveys. A capacity assessment survey of screening and treatment facilities will be done, followed by interviews with healthcare providers, programme managers, and community health workers. Interviews will be conducted with previously screened women and focus group discussions with under and never-screened women and community members. Stakeholder workshops will be held in each state to co-design the approaches to delivering HPV-based screening among 30-49-year-old women. DISCUSSION The quality and outcomes of existing screening services, readiness to transition to HPV-based screening, challenges in providing and participating in the cervical cancer care continuum, and acceptability of screening and treatment approaches will be examined. The knowledge gained about the current system, as well as recognition of actions to be taken, will inform a stakeholder workshop to co-design and evaluate implementation approaches for HPV-based screening through a cluster randomised implementation trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anu Mary Oommen
- The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
- Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Partha Basu
- International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | | | - Eric Zomawia
- Population Based Cancer Registry, Aizawl, Mizoram, India
| | | | | | - Vidhya Viswanathan
- Directorate of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Government of Tamil Nadu, Chennai, India
| | | | | | - David Hawkes
- Australian Centre for Prevention of Cervical Cancer, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Marion Saville
- Australian Centre for Prevention of Cervical Cancer, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Julia M L Brotherton
- The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Formerly Australian Centre for Prevention of Cervical Cancer, Melbourne, Australia
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Mallafré-Larrosa M, Ritchie D, Papi G, Mosquera I, Mensah K, Lucas E, Bøje RB, Kirkegaard P, Andersen B, Basu P. Survey of current policies towards widening cervical screening coverage among vulnerable women in 22 European countries. Eur J Public Health 2023; 33:502-508. [PMID: 37043751 PMCID: PMC10234668 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckad055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to investigate the status of cervical cancer screening (CCS) implementation in Europe by investigating national or regional policies towards broadening coverage of CCS amongst vulnerable subgroups of the population at high risk for CC. METHODS A web-based survey was conducted between September 2021 and February 2022 with CCS programme managers and experts to identify and rank six population subgroups at high risk considered most vulnerable to CC and to map existing policies that addressed the coverage of CCS towards population sub-groups at risk. RESULTS A total of 31 responses were received from experts covering 22 European countries. The results of this survey suggest that whilst many countries identify lower coverage of CCS amongst population subgroups at high risk of CC as a public health problem, few countries have developed dedicated policies towards broadening coverage among these subgroups. The six countries who reported having done so were concentrated in the Northern or Western European regions, suggesting the existence of geographical disparities within the continent. A key challenge in this respect is the difficulty to categorize subgroups of the target population; many individuals are burdened by intersectionality thereby resting in multiple categories, which may hinder the effectiveness of interventions targeted to reach specific subgroups. CONCLUSION A greater clarity on the conceptualization of vulnerability can help countries to develop and subsequently implement strategies to increase coverage to subgroups of the target population currently underserved with regards to CCS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meritxell Mallafré-Larrosa
- Association of European Cancer Leagues (ECL), Brussels, Belgium
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - David Ritchie
- Association of European Cancer Leagues (ECL), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ginevra Papi
- Association of European Cancer Leagues (ECL), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Isabel Mosquera
- Early Detection, Prevention & Infections Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer/World Health Organization (IARC), Lyon Cedex 07, France
| | - Keitly Mensah
- Early Detection, Prevention & Infections Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer/World Health Organization (IARC), Lyon Cedex 07, France
| | - Eric Lucas
- Early Detection, Prevention & Infections Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer/World Health Organization (IARC), Lyon Cedex 07, France
| | - Rikke Buus Bøje
- Department of Public Health Programmes, Randers Regional Hospital, University Research Clinic for Cancer Screening, Randers, Denmark
| | - Pia Kirkegaard
- Early Detection, Prevention & Infections Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer/World Health Organization (IARC), Lyon Cedex 07, France
- Department of Public Health Programmes, Randers Regional Hospital, University Research Clinic for Cancer Screening, Randers, Denmark
| | - Berit Andersen
- Department of Public Health Programmes, Randers Regional Hospital, University Research Clinic for Cancer Screening, Randers, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Partha Basu
- Early Detection, Prevention & Infections Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer/World Health Organization (IARC), Lyon Cedex 07, France
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Greenley R, Bell S, Rigby S, Legood R, Kirkby V, McKee M. Factors influencing the participation of groups identified as underserved in cervical cancer screening in Europe: a scoping review of the literature. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1144674. [PMID: 37304105 PMCID: PMC10247980 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1144674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cervical cancer is a preventable and inequitably distributed disease. Screening plays a vital role in prevention, but many women face barriers to participation. The aims of this scoping review, undertaken to inform the co-design of interventions to equitably increase screening uptake, were to: (1) identify barriers and facilitators to cervical cancer screening for underserved populations, and (2) identify and describe the effectiveness of interventions aimed at improving participation in cervical cancer screening among underserved groups in Europe. Methods Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods studies focusing on barriers and facilitators to cervical screening participation and interventions to improve uptake undertaken in Europe and published after 2000 were included. Four electronic databases were searched to identify relevant papers. Titles and abstracts were screened, full text reviewed, and key findings extracted. Data were extracted and analyzed according to different health system strata: system-wide (macro), service specific (meso) and individual/community specific (micro). Within these categories, themes were identified, and the population groups impacted were recorded. All findings are presented in accordance with (PRISMA) guidelines. Results 33 studies on barriers and facilitators and eight intervention studies met the inclusion criteria. Collectively, the findings of these studies presented a wide array of screening uptake barriers, facilitators, and interventions, predominantly related to screening service and individual/community factors. However, although diverse, certain core themes around information provision, prompts for participation and the need for inclusive spaces were apparent. Implementation of screening programs should focus on: (1) reducing identifiable barriers, (2) increasing public awareness, and (3) providing patient reminders and measures to promote engagement by healthcare providers. Conclusion There are many barriers to uptake of cervical cancer screening and this review, nested within a larger study, will inform work to devise a solution alongside groups identified in three European countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Greenley
- Centre for Global Mental Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sadie Bell
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Samuel Rigby
- Department of Health Services, Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rosa Legood
- Centre for Global Chronic Conditions, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Victoria Kirkby
- Department of Health Services, Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Martin McKee
- Department of Health Services, Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Seoud M, Jaafar I, Hamadeh R, Ammar W, Atallah D, El-Kak F. Feasibility of implementing cytology-based cervical cancer screening national program in Lebanon: A pilot study. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2023; 161:86-92. [PMID: 36183305 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.14489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review our national cervical cancer screening program using existing Ministry of Public Health primary healthcare centers (PHCs) and report the impact of women's knowledge, attitude, behavior, and practices on screening uptake and outcome. METHODS A cross-sectional study on cervical cancer screening offered to sexually active Lebanese women aged 21 years and above visiting PHCs. Exclusions were history of complete hysterectomy, gynecologic cancers, and current pregnancy. Data were collected through a questionnaire and conventional cervical smear performed by trained healthcare providers and sent to one centralized cytopathology laboratory. RESULTS Of 12 273 eligible women, 1.7% had an abnormal cervical smear test including 161 atypical squamous cells (ASC) of undetermined significance, 6 atypical glandular cells of undetermined significance, 16 low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL), 17 ASC-cannot rule out high-grade SIL, 11 high-grade SIL, and one invasive carcinoma. Knowledge and attitudes significantly affected participation in screening; women lacking awareness had rarely undergone a cervical smear. CONCLUSION In Lebanon, cytology-based cervical cancer screening is feasible within the PHCs. Positive screen incidence was low. Despite previous campaigns, a low level of knowledge persists, and affects women's com with the screening guidelines. Advocacy and awareness activities by key healthcare providers may help to improve participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhieddine Seoud
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon.,Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City-Mayo Clinic, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Iman Jaafar
- Epidemiology Department, Cancer Center, Scientific Institute of Public Health, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | | - David Atallah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hotel Dieu de France, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Faysal El-Kak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
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9
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Cardoso R, Hoffmeister M, Brenner H. Breast cancer screening programmes and self-reported mammography use in European countries. Int J Cancer 2023; 152:2512-2527. [PMID: 36883419 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.34494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
Mammography screening has been shown to be able to reduce breast cancer mortality, leading most European countries to implement mammography-based screening programmes. In our study, we analysed key characteristics of breast cancer screening programmes and mammography use in European countries. Information on screening programmes were obtained from the 2017 European Union (EU) screening report, websites from governments and cancer registries, and through literature search in PubMed (studies published up to 20 June 2022). Data on self-reported mammography use in the past 2 years were obtained from Eurostat and had been derived from the European health interview survey (cross-sectional survey), conducted in the 27 EU countries, Iceland, Norway, Serbia, Turkey and the UK in 2013 to 2015 and 2018 to 2020. Data were analysed for each country according to their human development index (HDI). By 2022, all included countries besides Bulgaria and Greece had introduced an organised mammography-based screening programme; Romania and Turkey had only pilot programmes. Screening programmes differ substantially across countries, particularly in timing of implementation (e.g., in Sweden, the Netherlands before 1990; Belgium, France between 2000 and 2004; Denmark, Germany between 2005 and 2009; Austria, Slovakia after 2010). Self-reported mammography use also differed considerably across countries, and went along with HDI-from <36% in all countries with HDI <0.85 to >70% in most countries with HDI >0.90. The data call for efforts to improve mammography screening use across Europe, particularly in countries with lower development levels where breast cancer mortality rates are also among the highest in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Cardoso
- Division of Preventive Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael Hoffmeister
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology and Aging Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hermann Brenner
- Division of Preventive Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg, Germany
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology and Aging Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
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Kregting LM, Sankatsing VD, Heijnsdijk EA, de Koning HJ, van Ravesteyn NT. Finding the optimal mammography screening strategy: a cost‐effectiveness analysis of 920 modelled strategies. Int J Cancer 2022; 151:287-296. [PMID: 35285018 PMCID: PMC9310858 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.34000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer screening policies have been designed decades ago, but current screening strategies may not be optimal anymore. Next to that, screening capacity issues may restrict feasibility. This cost‐effectiveness study evaluates an extensive set of breast cancer screening strategies in the Netherlands. Using the Microsimulation Screening Analysis‐Breast (MISCAN‐Breast) model, the cost‐effectiveness of 920 breast cancer screening strategies with varying starting ages (40‐60), stopping ages (64‐84) and intervals (1‐4 years) were simulated. The number of quality adjusted life years (QALYs) gained and additional net costs (in €) per 1000 women were predicted (3.5% discounted) and incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were calculated to compare screening scenarios. Sensitivity analyses were performed using different assumptions. In total, 26 strategies covering all four intervals were on the efficiency frontier. Using a willingness‐to‐pay threshold of €20 000/QALY gained, the biennial 40 to 76 screening strategy was optimal. However, this strategy resulted in more overdiagnoses and false positives, and required a high screening capacity. The current strategy in the Netherlands, biennial 50 to 74 years, was dominated. Triennial screening in the age range 44 to 71 (ICER 9364) or 44 to 74 (ICER 11144) resulted in slightly more QALYs gained and lower costs than the current Dutch strategy. Furthermore, these strategies were estimated to require a lower screening capacity. Findings were robust when varying attendance and effectiveness of treatment. In conclusion, switching from biennial to triennial screening while simultaneously lowering the starting age to 44 can increase benefits at lower costs and with a minor increase in harms compared to the current strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindy M. Kregting
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Harry J. de Koning
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam The Netherlands
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11
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Effects of cancer screening restart strategies after COVID-19 disruption. Br J Cancer 2021; 124:1516-1523. [PMID: 33723386 PMCID: PMC7957464 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-021-01261-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screening programmes were disrupted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to estimate the effects of five restart strategies after the disruption on required screening capacity and cancer burden. METHODS Microsimulation models simulated five restart strategies for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screening. The models estimated required screening capacity, cancer incidence, and cancer-specific mortality after a disruption of 6 months. The restart strategies varied in whether screens were caught up or not and, if so, immediately or delayed, and whether the upper age limit was increased. RESULTS The disruption in screening programmes without catch-up of missed screens led to an increase of 2.0, 0.3, and 2.5 cancer deaths per 100 000 individuals in 10 years in breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer, respectively. Immediately catching-up missed screens minimised the impact of the disruption but required a surge in screening capacity. Delaying screening, but still offering all screening rounds gave the best balance between required capacity, incidence, and mortality. CONCLUSIONS Strategies with the smallest loss in health effects were also the most burdensome for the screening organisations. Which strategy is preferred depends on the organisation and available capacity in a country.
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12
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Csanádi M, Gini A, Koning HD, Széles G, Pitter JG, Oroszi B, Pataki P, Fadgyas-Freyler P, Korponai G, Vokó Z, Lansdorp-Vogelaar I. Modeling costs and benefits of the organized colorectal cancer screening programme and its potential future improvements in Hungary. J Med Screen 2020; 28:268-276. [PMID: 33153369 DOI: 10.1177/0969141320968598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The national population-based colorectal cancer screening programme in Hungary was initiated in December 2018. We aimed to evaluate the current programme and investigate the costs and benefits of potential future changes to overcome the low coverage of the target population. METHODS We performed an economic evaluation from a healthcare payer perspective using an established micro-simulation model (Microsimulation Screening Analysis-Colon). We simulated costs and benefits of screening with fecal immunochemical test in the Hungarian population aged 50-100, investigating also the impact of potential future scenarios which were assumed to increase invitation coverage: improvement of the IT platform currently used by GPs or distributing the tests through pharmacies instead of GPs. RESULTS The model predicted that the current screening programme could lead to 6.2% colorectal cancer mortality reduction between 2018 and 2050 compared to no screening. Even higher reductions, up to 16.6%, were estimated when tests were distributed through pharmacies and higher coverage was assumed. This change in the programme was estimated to require up to 26 million performed fecal immunochemical tests and 1 million colonoscopies for the simulated period. These future scenarios have acceptable cost-benefit ratios of €8000-€8700 per life-years gained depending on the assumed adherence of invited individuals. CONCLUSIONS With its limitations, the current colorectal cancer screening programme in Hungary will have a modest impact on colorectal cancer mortality. Significant improvements in mortality reduction could be made at acceptable costs, if the tests were to be distributed by pharmacies allowing the entire target population to be invited.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrea Gini
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Harry de Koning
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Gyula Korponai
- National Health Insurance Fund of Hungary, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Vokó
- Syreon Research Institute, Budapest, Hungary.,Center for Health Technology Assessment, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Iris Lansdorp-Vogelaar
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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13
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Paszat LF, Sutradhar R, Corn E, Tinmouth J, Baxter NN, Rabeneck L. Decreased Colorectal Cancer Incidence and Incidence-Based Mortality in the Screening-Age Population of Ontario. J Can Assoc Gastroenterol 2020; 4:146-155. [PMID: 34056532 PMCID: PMC8158646 DOI: 10.1093/jcag/gwaa035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims We aimed to evaluate trends in Ontario, Canada, 2002 to 2016, in uptake of colorectal evaluative procedures, colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and incidence-based mortality in the colorectal screening-age population. Methods We defined the screening age-eligible population as persons 51 to 74 years of age with ≥1 year eligibility for the Ontario Health Insurance Plan, excluding those with a diagnosis of CRC in the Ontario Cancer Registry (OCR) prior to age 50 or January 1, 2002. We computed annual up-to-date status with colorectal evaluative procedures from billing claims, and CRC incidence from the OCR. In order to compute incidence-based CRC mortality, we included persons with a first diagnosis of CRC between the ages of 51 and 74, diagnosed between January 1, 1992 and December 31, 2001, still alive and <75 years of age on January 1, 2002, based on cause of death from the OCR. Overall, age-stratified and sex-stratified trends were evaluated by Cochran–Armitage trend tests. Results Persons up to date with colorectal evaluative procedures increased from 628,214/2,782,061 (22.6%) in 2002 to 2,584,570/4,179,789 (62.2%) in 2016. CRC incidence fell from 129.3/100,000 in 2002 to 94.54/100,000 in 2016, and incidence-based CRC mortality fell from 40.8/100,000 to 24.1/100,000. Decreasing trends in overall and stratified incidence and mortality were all significant, except among persons 51 to 54 years old. Conclusions There was continued increase in persons up-to-date with colorectal evaluative procedures, and significant decrease in CRC incidence and incidence-based CRC mortality from 2002 through 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence F Paszat
- Institute for Healthcare Policy Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rinku Sutradhar
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elyse Corn
- Cancer Research Program, ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jill Tinmouth
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nancy N Baxter
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Linda Rabeneck
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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14
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Zielonke N, Kregting LM, Heijnsdijk EAM, Veerus P, Heinävaara S, McKee M, de Kok IMCM, de Koning HJ, van Ravesteyn NT. The potential of breast cancer screening in Europe. Int J Cancer 2020; 148:406-418. [PMID: 32683673 PMCID: PMC7754503 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.33204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Currently, all European countries offer some form of breast cancer screening. Nevertheless, disparities exist in the status of implementation, attendance and the extent of opportunistic screening. As a result, breast cancer screening has not yet reached its full potential. We examined how many breast cancer deaths could be prevented if all European countries would biennially screen all women aged 50 to 69 for breast cancer. We calculated the number of breast cancer deaths already prevented due to screening as well as the number of breast cancer deaths which could be additionally prevented if the total examination coverage (organised plus opportunistic) would reach 100%. The calculations are based on total examination coverage in women aged 50 to 69, the annual number of breast cancer deaths for women aged 50 to 74 and the maximal possible mortality reduction from breast cancer, assuming similar effectiveness of organised and opportunistic screening. The total examination coverage ranged from 49% (East), 62% (West), 64% (North) to 69% (South). Yearly 21 680 breast cancer deaths have already been prevented due to mammography screening. If all countries would reach 100% examination coverage, 12 434 additional breast cancer deaths could be prevented annually, with the biggest potential in Eastern Europe. With maximum coverage, 23% of their breast cancer deaths could be additionally prevented, while in Western Europe it could be 21%, in Southern Europe 15% and in Northern Europe 9%. Our study illustrates that by further optimising screening coverage, the number of breast cancer deaths in Europe can be lowered substantially.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Zielonke
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lindy M Kregting
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eveline A M Heijnsdijk
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Piret Veerus
- National Institute for Health Development, Tallinn, Estonia
| | | | - Martin McKee
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Inge M C M de Kok
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Harry J de Koning
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nicolien T van Ravesteyn
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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- The EU-TOPIA collaborators are listed in the Appendix
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15
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de Koning HJ. The Future Is Prosperous. J Natl Cancer Inst 2020; 112:219-220. [PMID: 31292643 PMCID: PMC7073909 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djz139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Harry J de Koning
- Correspondence to: Harry J. de Koning, MD, PhD, Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC - University Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Room Na-2411, Rotterdam, the Netherlands (e-mail: )
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Priaulx J, Csanádi M, de Koning HJ, McKee M. A choice experiment to identify the most important elements of a successful cancer screening program according to those who research and manage such programs. Int J Health Plann Manage 2018; 34:e34-e45. [PMID: 30378696 DOI: 10.1002/hpm.2697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Revised: 10/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The relationship between cancer screening activities in Europe and the health systems in which they are embedded varies, with some screening programs organized largely separately and others using existing health service staff and facilities. Whatever the precise arrangements, the opportunity for screening to achieve health gain depends on many elements interacting within and beyond the health system, from an accurate register identifying the target population to a means to ensure and monitor follow-up. METHOD A conjoint analysis was undertaken with 66 cancer screening experts from 31 countries taking part in EU-TOPIA (towards improved screening for breast, cervical and colorectal cancer in all of Europe) to identify priorities for an effective screening program, taking a whole system perspective. Ten attributes, each with two levels, were derived from a review of the literature and consultation with experts in cancer screening. Statistical software generated 12 profiles that were ranked by respondents and analyzed using standard conjoint analysis. FINDINGS AND CONCLUSION The most important attributes were having up-to-date and evidence-based guidelines, followed by mechanisms for systematic monitoring of screening uptake, having a population register covering all of the eligible population and monitoring long-term outcomes. In discussions about the results, participants argued that quality assurance and adherence to guidelines were important, even though they generated low scores in the experiment. This difference may be due some attributes being interrelated, more wide-ranging or the sequential nature of establishing an effective screening program, with guidelines being the first stage of the process.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Harry J de Koning
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martin McKee
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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