Exploring the Determinants of HPV Self-Sampling among Low-Income Women: An Application of the Theory of Planned Behavior

Cervical cancer screening and continued treatment can prevent cervical cancer but are largely inaccessible among low-income and uninsured women. Implementing self-collect vaginal or cervical samples could promote early diagnosis. However, studies about low-income women’s perspectives on HPV sampling are limited. The objective was to analyze how intention to participate in HPV self-sampling is influenced by the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) constructs. It is a cross-sectional study utilizing a questionnaire survey with demographic questions and questions that are compatible with the behavioral construct criteria. Around 200 women in the Waco area with varying demographics participated in the study. The results of the study demonstrate that there is a statistically significant relationship between behavioral intention and two TPB constructs: knowledge and attitude. Additionally, the results indicate that there is a significant correlation between race and whether one has heard of HPV self-sampling test. The relation of race and willingness to participate in HPV self-sampling as well as the impact of knowledge and attitude on intention to participate are consistent with previous studies.