Offering self-sampling devices to increase cervical cancer screening in underscreened women

Efficacy of Offering a Self-sampling Device by the General Practitioner to Reach Women Underscreened in the Routine Cervical Cancer Screening Program Compared to Sending Reminder Letters by the Screening Organization

NA · University Ghent · NCT05656976

This study tests whether giving women aged 31 to 65 a self-sampling device for cervical cancer screening through their doctor or by mail can help more of them get screened.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment3375 (estimated)
Ages31 Years to 64 Years
SexFemale
SponsorUniversity Ghent (other)
Locations1 site (Ghent)
Trial IDNCT05656976 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This trial evaluates the effectiveness of providing a self-sampling device (SSD) to women aged 31 to 65 who have not undergone cervical screening in the past six years. It compares two methods of offering the SSD: through direct interaction with a general practitioner (GP) or by sending it via mail. The study is designed as a randomized control trial with three arms to assess the impact of these interventions on screening rates. It is a collaborative effort involving multiple universities and cancer organizations in Belgium.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are women aged 31 to 64 living in Flanders who have not had a cervical smear in the last six years.

Not a fit: Patients who have had a hysterectomy, are currently pregnant, or have a past diagnosis of cervical cancer will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly increase cervical cancer screening rates among underscreened women, leading to earlier detection and improved outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Similar studies have shown promise in increasing screening rates through self-sampling methods, indicating a potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* women between 31-64 years old
* living in Flanders
* eligible for the Flemish actions with regard to population screening
* without a smear registered in the Belgian Cancer Registry in the last 6 years
* registered as GMD patient in one of the participating GP practices

Exclusion Criteria:

* hysterectomy
* pregnancy
* (past) diagnosis of cervical cancer

Where this trial is running

Ghent

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Cervical Cancer, Prevention, Screening

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.