Improving anal cancer screening through self-sampling methods

Self-sampling to Optimize Anal Lesion Outcomes (SOLO)

NIH-funded research Medical College of Wisconsin · NIH-11184824

This study is looking at whether using self-sampling methods at home can help more people, especially those from sexual and gender minority groups, get screened for anal cancer, compared to going to a clinic, so we can catch any issues earlier and improve health outcomes.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMedical College of Wisconsin NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Milwaukee, United States)
Project IDNIH-11184824 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how self-sampling techniques can enhance participation in anal cancer screenings, particularly among sexual and gender minorities who face barriers to in-clinic procedures. By comparing home-based self-sampling with traditional healthcare provider sampling, the study aims to determine which method leads to higher attendance rates for important screenings like cytology and high-resolution anoscopy. The research will involve 572 participants from cities including Chicago, Houston, and Milwaukee, focusing on addressing issues such as stigma and access to healthcare. The ultimate goal is to reduce the incidence of anal squamous cell carcinoma by improving early detection and treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include sexual and gender minorities, particularly those who are Black or living with HIV, who may have previously faced barriers to anal cancer screening.

Not a fit: Patients who do not identify as sexual or gender minorities or those who are not at risk for anal cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly increase screening rates for anal cancer, leading to earlier detection and better outcomes for at-risk populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that home-based self-sampling significantly improves screening participation among targeted populations, indicating a promising approach.

Where this research is happening

Milwaukee, 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 VirusAnal CancerAnus Cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.