A program to improve cervical cancer screening for women living with HIV in West Africa

West Africa Self-Sampling HPV Based Cervical Cancer Control Program (WA-SS-HCCP) for WLWHA: Barriers, challenges, and needs

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10906797

This study is testing a new way for women living with HIV in West Africa to check for HPV, which can lead to cervical cancer, by using easy self-sampling methods that help them take control of their health.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10906797 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on implementing a self-sampling HPV testing program aimed at women living with HIV in West Africa, where cervical cancer rates are alarmingly high. The program seeks to identify women at risk of cervical cancer through cost-effective and accessible testing methods. By leveraging existing healthcare systems and partnerships in Mali and Nigeria, the project aims to overcome barriers to cervical cancer screening and treatment. Patients will be involved in the self-sampling process, which empowers them to take charge of their health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women living with HIV in West Africa, particularly those who may not have access to traditional cervical cancer screening methods.

Not a fit: Patients who do not live in West Africa or who are not living with HIV may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce cervical cancer incidence and mortality among women living with HIV in West Africa.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that self-sampling HPV tests can be effective in increasing cervical cancer screening rates in similar populations, indicating a promising approach.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome VirusCancer CauseCancer ControlCancer Control Science
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.