A Pilot Study Investigating Acceptability of HPV Self-Sampling in Japanese Women of Reproductive Age

Cervical cancer (CC) is increasing in Japanese women of reproductive age. Most CCs occur in women who do not undergo regular cervical screening. This represents around 70% of young Japanese women. Thus, strategies to increase screening uptake are necessary. Studies have shown that human papillomavirus self-sampling (HPV self-sampling) is an inexpensive and well-accepted method for HPV detection that can increase non-responder participation in CC screening programs. However, no such study has taken place in Japan. The aim of this pilot-study was therefore to assess acceptability and preference for HPV self-sampling compared with traditional physician-sampled Pap tests (physician sampling) in a Japanese population.