Amadi, Azubuike, Lawal, Muili ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1502-3884, Khan, Hafiz T.A. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1817-3730 and Japhet, Sharry (2026) Bridging the gap: exploring healthcare professionals' perceptions and barriers towards cervical cancer screening services uptake amongst women in rural communities. Journal of the Egyptian National Cancer Institute (JENCI), 38.

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Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer remains a significant public health concern, particularly in rural communities where
access to screening and diagnostic services is limited. Despite being preventable through HPV vaccination and early
detection via screening, cervical cancer continues to pose substantial health challenges in resource-limited settings.
Colposcopy, a crucial diagnostic procedure for women with abnormal screening results, faces various implementation
challenges in rural healthcare settings.

Objective: This study explores healthcare professionals' perceptions, experiences, and identified barriers affecting
cervical cancer screening services uptake among women in rural communities, with particular focus on colposcopy
service delivery challenges and potential improvement strategies.

Methods: Two qualitative focus group discussions were conducted with healthcare professionals (n = 18 total; FGD1:
n = 9, FGD2: n = 9) involved in cervical cancer screening services in rural areas. Participants included obstetriciangynaecologists,
general practitioners, and healthcare providers with experience in colposcopy services. Data were
analysed using thematic analysis to identify key themes and patterns.

Results: Healthcare professionals identified multiple interconnected barriers affecting cervical cancer screening
services uptake, including: (1) limited awareness and cultural beliefs among rural women, (2) infrastructural
challenges including equipment shortages and power supply issues, (3) workforce limitations and inadequate
training, (4) accessibility and transportation barriers, and (5) security concerns in rural areas. Despite these challenges,
professionals acknowledged the critical importance of colposcopy in early cervical cancer detection and prevention.

Conclusions: Based on healthcare professionals' experiences in this study of three local government areas in
Rivers State, successful implementation of cervical cancer screening services in rural communities requires a multifaceted
approach addressing infrastructure development, continuous professional training, community education
programmes, and policy support. Healthcare professionals emphasise the need for sustained commitment from
government and non-governmental organisations to bridge existing gaps in cervical cancer prevention services.

Item Type:	Article
Identifier:	10.1186/s43046-026-00346-x
Additional Information:	The version of record of this article, first published in [Journal name], is available online at Publisher’s website: https://doi.org/10.1186/s43046-026-00346-x
Keywords:	Colposcopy, Cervical cancer screening, Rural healthcare, Barriers, Healthcare professionals' perceptions
Subjects:	Medicine and health > Health promotion and public health
Date Deposited:	08 Apr 2026
URI:	https://repository.uwl.ac.uk/id/eprint/14843
Sustainable Development Goals:	Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being

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