Project Self Education & Screening Kit for Cervical Cancer Prevention in Hispanic and African American Women
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if providing HPV (human papillomavirus) self-collection kits, along with education and support, can improve cervical cancer screening rates among Hispanic and African American women in Houston, Texas. Participants will complete questionnaires, attend a health education session, and use the self-collection kit at home. The trial seeks Hispanic or African American women who live at least half the time in the participating housing developments, have a working phone, and can read and speak English or Spanish. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the chance to contribute to important research that may enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of cervical cancer screening.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that HPV self-collection is safe for cervical cancer screening?
A previous study found that people can safely and accurately collect their own samples for HPV (human papillomavirus) testing, which screens for cervical cancer. This method allows individuals to take samples themselves, potentially increasing screening rates. Research has shown that this self-collection method is well-accepted and now approved for use in healthcare settings, making it a reliable choice for many.
Additionally, Project Self, which uses HPV self-collection kits along with education and support, safely increased cervical cancer screening rates. These kits are mailed to participants, providing a safe and easy way for those who might not visit a clinic to get tested.
Overall, evidence suggests that both self-collection for HPV testing and Project Self are safe and effective ways to increase cervical cancer screening.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about Project Self because it offers a new approach to cervical cancer prevention by empowering women to take charge of their own health. Unlike traditional methods requiring a visit to a healthcare provider for a Pap smear or HPV test, this method allows women to self-collect samples at home using an HPV self-collection kit. Additionally, the inclusion of a health education session helps participants better understand cervical cancer risks and prevention, which is crucial for underserved communities. This approach not only increases accessibility and convenience but also aims to improve screening rates among Hispanic and African American women, who often face barriers to traditional screening methods.
What evidence suggests that Project Self could improve cervical cancer screening rates?
Research shows that HPV self-collection kits, which participants in this trial will receive, can significantly increase cervical cancer screening rates. These kits are affordable and help reach women who might not otherwise get screened. Studies have found that mailing these self-collection tests more than doubles the number of under-screened women in the U.S. who participate in cervical cancer screening. The samples women collect themselves are reliable, with a high accuracy rate of about 94.6% for detecting HPV. This method simplifies screening by allowing women to collect samples independently, removing many common obstacles to testing.56789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Surendranath S Shastri
Principal Investigator
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for Hispanic and African American women living in Houston, Texas who identify as such, have a valid home address in certain housing developments, a working phone number, and can speak and read English or Spanish. Women with household members already enrolled, those who've had a hysterectomy, have had cancer or are pregnant cannot participate.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Education and Self-Collection
Participants complete questionnaires, take part in a health education session, and receive an HPV self-collection kit
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in cervical screening knowledge, attitudes, and practices, and HPV self-collection uptake
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- HPV Self-Collection
- Project Self
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Lead Sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator