Acceptability and Preference for Self-sampling HPV DNA Test among Thai Women Attending Songkhla Hospital

Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer is the fifth most common cancer among Thai women, with 5,422 new cases in 2023. Screening effectively reduces incidence; however, participation remains suboptimal. The method of specimen collection for HPV testing may be a barrier. Self-sampling has recently been introduced, but its satisfaction and acceptance among Thai women must be evaluated. Objectives: To assess satisfaction, compare self-sampling with physician-collected sampling, and evaluate acceptance of self-sampling method. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Songkhla Hospital between January and October 2023. Eligible women underwent HPV testing via self-sampling and completed questionnaires on demographics, satisfaction, and acceptance using a Likert scale. Results: A total of 1,170 women participated. Overall satisfaction was very high, particularly for ease and convenience (94.4%), safety (92.1%), and reliability (87.3%). Acceptance of self-sampling for future screening was reported by 81.3%. Among 772 women with prior physician-collected sampling, the most common disadvantages were embarrassment (78.3%), pain (75.2%), and fear (67.9%), all higher than self-sampling. However, physician-collected sampling was perceived as more reliable (46.7% vs. 22.2%). Importantly, 69.1% of those who initially trusted physician-collected sampling ultimately chose self-sampling for future screening. Conclusion: Self-sampling for HPV cervical cancer screening was associated with high satisfaction and broad acceptance, emerging as a preferred method for future screening. Women consistently cited embarrassment, pain, and fear as major disadvantages of physician collection, whereas self-sampling offered greater comfort and acceptability despite lower perceived reliability