Why Women Needing Pre-Cervical Cancer Care are Lost to Follow-Up in Iquitos, Peru
Author Information
Author(s): Blum Alex C., Tessema Rachael, Nussbaum Lauren, Hidalgo Cristina, Ríos López E. Jennifer, Meza-Sánchez Graciela, Morse Rachel, Brown Joanna, Reategui Reyles Rios, Wong Lucía, Córdova Luis Díaz, Diaz Karina Gonzales, Liñán Renso López, Vásquez Javier Vásquez, Tracy J. Kathleen, Paz-Soldan Valerie A.
Primary Institution: Tulane School of Medicine
Hypothesis
What are the barriers to follow-up for women with cervical lesions suspicious of cancer in Iquitos, Peru?
Conclusion
Women at high risk of developing cervical cancer are still being lost to follow-up after being referred to the hospital for care despite improvements in the follow-up process.
Supporting Evidence
- Women expressed confusion about their HPV diagnosis and the next steps of care.
- Many women had to make multiple trips to the hospital before receiving care.
- Patients reported a lack of follow-up from healthcare professionals regarding their results.
- Healthcare professionals suggested the need for a patient navigation program to assist women.
Takeaway
This study found that many women who need cervical cancer treatment in Peru don't get the help they need because they don't understand the process and have to make many trips to the hospital.
Methodology
In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 HPV-positive women and healthcare professionals to identify barriers to follow-up care.
Limitations
The findings may not be applicable to other regions due to differing structural and geographic barriers.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 18 HPV-positive women and 12 healthcare professionals from various roles in the healthcare system.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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