Barriers and facilitators for adherence to follow-up by HR-HPV-positive women with premalignant cervical lesions: a mixed-design study in Mexico.

BACKGROUND

Mexico reports low follow-up completion rates among women with abnormal cervical cancer screenings. This study aimed to identify barriers and facilitators to follow-up adherence among women with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and premalignant cervical lesions in Mexico.

METHODS

A mixed-methods study was conducted from February to April 2019. Participants included women undergoing follow-up care for high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) and premalignant lesions, along with health personnel from the Women's Healthcare Center (CAPASAM) in Mexico. Quantitative data were obtained from the Women's Cancer Information System and through a questionnaire about factors affecting follow-up adherence. Additionally, the health personnel involved completed a compliance checklist regarding care regulations. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis. Qualitative data were collected via semi-structured interviews with both groups, followed by a content analysis based on identified categories. The Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point System confirmed care process risks. Proposals to enhance the Early Detection Program for Prevention and Control of Cervical Cancer were collected from a CAPASAM health personnel nominal group.

RESULTS

Identified barriers to follow-up included low income among CAPASAM users, family provider roles limiting time for appointments, long waits for testing and results delivery, distant facilities, insufficient service hour communication, inadequate health personnel training, and a lack of systematic counseling. Hesitation toward follow-up was also linked to shame, apprehension, uncertainty, test aversion, fear of positive results, and limited cervical cancer and screening knowledge. Patriarchal attitudes of partners and limited access to the now-discontinued PROSPERA government program further discouraged follow-up. Facilitators comprised respectful treatment by CAPASAM staff, no-cost services, health campaigns, and positive user attitudes.

CONCLUSIONS

The study found more barriers than facilitators to follow-up adherence, highlighting the need for strategies to bolster the Early Detection Program. Future strategies must address the comprehensive array of factors and incorporate stakeholder perspectives.