Uniting Trusted Community Messengers to Improve Access to Cervical Cancer Screening in Rural North Carolina
This clinical trial develops and tests a multi-level intervention to improve cervical cancer screening and follow-up care among women living in rural North Carolina. Cervical cancer is primarily caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and remains a significant health concern, particularly in rural and racially and ethnically minoritized communities where screening rates are lower and survival outcomes are worse. Although many cervical cancers can be prevented through HPV vaccination and early detection, barriers such as limited access to care and shortages of healthcare providers contribute to delays in screening and follow-up. This trial will use trusted community messengers, including community health workers and local community-based organizations, to distribute HPV self-collection kits, support women in completing and returning kits, and assist with scheduling follow-up care for abnormal results. By increasing access to HPV self-sampling and navigation support, this intervention may improve screening completion and timely follow-up care in rural communities.