HPV Equity Study: Exploring Cervical Cancer Control in Scotland for Women With Experience of Priority Risks

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to address health inequities related to cervical cancer among women and individuals with a cervix who have experienced homelessness, substance use or addiction, transactional sex, and incarceration. These groups are less engaged with routine HPV vaccination and cervical cancer screening but have higher risks of developing cervical cancer. The study explores the feasibility and acceptability of offering HPV vaccination opportunistically during standard sexual health care, as well as understanding HPV prevalence and participant experiences. Participants will be offered the Gardasil-9 vaccine, which protects against nine HPV types, and a self-taken vaginal swab for HPV testing. Up to 500 individuals across three health boards in Scotland will be recruited over 6 to 9 months. The vaccination course will be offered according to immunocompetency, with 2 or 3 doses spaced 6 to 12 months apart. Those testing positive for high-risk HPV will be supported with follow-up and treatment access. The study also includes in-depth interviews to explore participants' perceptions and experiences of vaccination and screening. Participation usually involves one clinic visit for vaccination and HPV testing, with travel expenses offered for follow-up visits. Interviews may be conducted in person, by phone, or via secure digital platforms, with transcripts anonymized for analysis. Researchers will measure vaccination uptake at baseline, HPV prevalence, vaccine completion at 12 months, and follow-up testing at 6 months. The study will continue monitoring and supporting participants who test positive for high-risk HPV throughout the follow-up period.

HPV Equity Study: Exploring Cervical Cancer Control in Scotland for Women With Experience of Priority Risks