Self-collection of Pap smears to improve cervical cancer screening in rural Alabama
Self-Collection of the Pap Smear as Agency: A Novel Way to Improve Refractory Low Cervical Cancer Screening Rates in Rural Alabama
This study is testing if women in rural Alabama can accurately collect their own Pap smears at home to help improve cervical cancer screening rates.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 250 (estimated) |
| Ages | 21 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | University of Alabama at Birmingham Academic / other |
| Locations | 3 sites (Birmingham, Alabama and 2 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT04093388 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates whether self-administered Pap smears are as accurate as those collected by healthcare providers. Participants will provide both self-collected and provider-collected specimens, which will be analyzed without the pathologist knowing which is which. The goal is to determine if self-collection can enhance cervical cancer screening rates in rural areas. The study aims to empower women by providing them with the option to collect their own samples.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are women aged 21 to 65 who require routine cervical cancer screening.
Not a fit: Patients with a prior history of cervical cancer, a positive Pap smear, or those who have had a total hysterectomy will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly increase cervical cancer screening rates among women in rural areas.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in self-collection methods for cervical cancer screening, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Female of at least 21 years of age and not over 65 presenting who need routine cervical cancer screening per national guidelines. Exclusion Criteria: * prior history of cervical cancer or a positive Pap smear, have had a total hysterectomy (removal of uterus and cervix), or currently enrolled in any other cancer prevention study.
Where this trial is running
Birmingham, Alabama and 2 other locations
- Cahaba Medical Care - West End — Birmingham, Alabama, United States (Recruiting)
- Cahaba Medical Care - Ensley — Birmingham, Alabama, United States (Recruiting)
- Cahaba Medical Care — Centreville, Alabama, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: John B Waits, MD — Pi
- Study coordinator: John B Waits, MD
- Email: john.waits@cahabamedicalcare.com
- Phone: 2052772379
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.