A collaboration between Hywel Dda University Health Board, Public Health Wales, and Cervical Screening Wales, aiming to inform a shared decision aid for HPV self-sampling.
This collaboration led by Hywel Dda University Health Board, Public Health Wales, and Cervical Screening Wales seeks to develop, and pilot a decision-making tool to support HPV self-sampling for cervical screening in Wales. By leveraging insights from residents and partners, the project’s aiming to provide an accessible, shared decision aid to enhance understanding and increase screening uptake across Wales.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) screening reduces the risk of cervical cancer by 70%. While routine and cervical screening (known as a smear test) is wildly available in Wales, participation rates have declined over recent years, particularly in the Hywel Dda region, having the lowest attendance rates in Wales. Delaying tests can lead to late cancer diagnosis, with poorer outcomes. Self-sampling methods such as swabs and urine samples are being trialled in the UK.
This project’s exploring the potential of at-home HPV self-sampling as an alternative to traditional in-clinic testing, which could increase screening rates and prioritise those needing further support and care.
Life Sciences Hub Wales have facilitated vital collaboration between key stakeholders. Our support and activities include project support, networking, survey development, and stakeholder coordination, enhancing effective project progress and outcomes, to transform cervical screening in Wales.
Project aims:
- Survey eligible people in HDUHB about their understanding of HPV, their attendance at cervical screening, and their views of HPV self-sampling.
- Develop a decision support tool using survey findings to create materials that support decision-making for HPV self-sampling and cervical screening.
- Analyse cost and effectiveness by conducting a thematic and cost-benefit analysis to evaluate the potential impact of HPV self-sampling on future cervical screening programmes.
Next steps
Introducing HPV self-sampling in Wales can help significantly reduce costs, improving patient experiences, and increased access to cervical screening. Moving forward the next steps are:
- Collaborate with Cervical Screening Wales to weave survey insights into ongoing public health campaigns
- Support Hywel Dda University Health Board, and Public Health Wales in piloting HPV self-sampling to reach a broader population.
- To expand UK-wide collaboration, contributing to a national integration of HPV self-sampling in screening programmes.
For more information about the Bevan Exemplar project, please email Project Lead Debbie.harvey@lshubwales.com, or you can find out more about here.
- Hywel Dda University Health Board
Hywel Dda University Health Board
Public Health Wales
Cervical Screening Wales
Bevan Commission
Life Sciences Hub Wales
Collaboration between key stakeholders
Survey implementation
Over 4,500 HDUHB residents were surveyed to gather insights on their understanding of HPV, cervical screening participation, and preferences for self-sampling.
Qualitative interviews and analysis
In-depth interviews provided additional context to survey findings.
Resource development
The project team created a video resource to address identified barriers and provide clarity on HPV and cervical cancer screening.
Decision-making tool
An initial version of the decision aid was field-tested with user feedback, refining it for broader roll out
The introduction of HPV self-sampling has the potential to significantly increase cervical screening uptake, providing a convenient alternative for eligible individuals. With 64% of survey respondents indicating a preference for at-home testing, this approach could transform engagement with screening services, offering patients more choice and control of their health.
The shift towards self-sampling may save NHS Wales approximately £650,000 per year, reducing the need for in-clinic testing and freeing up healthcare resources. Patients opting for self-sampling could also benefit from an estimated £2 million in collective time savings, lowering the demand for in-person appointments and improving access for those in greatest need of clinical support.
By addressing a lack of understanding about HPV, the project can foster improved health outcomes, helping prevent cases through earlier detection and encouraging proactive screening.
A comprehensive survey was completed by over 4,600 people in the Hywel Dda region, showing that while many favour the convenience of self-sampling, some have concerns about self-administrating the test. Findings highlighted the importance of addressing these reservations through clear and supportive resources.
To support informed decision-making, the project developed video resources and a thematic analysis which clarify key information about HPV, cervical cancer risk, and screening options. The insights from the analysis has laid the foundation for educational campaigns to address common misconceptions, and to support self-sampling.
Using the feedback, the team refined the decision aid tool, creating an accessible resource that aligns with public health goals to make cervical screening more user-friendly and inclusive.