Trends in cervical cancer screening in developing countries

Cervical cancer screening invitations in low and middle income countries: Evidence from Armenia

Roughly 90 percent of cervical cancer deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where the lack of adequate infrastructures hampers screening, while informational, cultural, and socio-economic barriers limit participation in the few programs that do exist. We conducted a field experiment with the Armenian cervical cancer screening program to determine whether, despite these barriers, the simple, economical invitation strategies adopted in high-income countries could enhance screening take-up in LMICs. We find that letters of invitation increase screening take-up, especially when there are follow-up reminders. Different ways of framing messages appear to have no impact. Finally, women in rural areas are more likely to respond to invitation by letter, helping to narrow the urban-rural screening gap.

Barriers to Cervical Cancer Screening Among Women Living With HIV in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review

Women living with HIV in low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs) are at high risk of developing cervical cancer due to their immunocompromised status. Screening is an imperative prevention measure for early detection and for ultimately reducing high rates of cervical cancer; however, cervical cancer screening uptake among this group remains low. This systematic review aimed to identify barriers to cervical cancer screening among women living with HIV in LMIC. A comprehensive literature search was undertaken, and an analysis of included studies was completed to abstract major themes related to cervical cancer screening barriers for women living with HIV in LMIC. Lack of cervical cancer and cervical cancer screening knowledge among patients was found to be the most prevalent barrier to cervical cancer screening. Our findings highlight a dire need for interventions to increase knowledge and awareness of cervical cancer screening among women living with HIV in LMIC, along with addressing barriers within health care systems.