The following is a summary of “Colposcopy in the Primary Health Care: A Scoping Review,” published in the September 2023 issue of Primary Care by Zapata, et al.

Cervical cancer is a significant health concern, with most cases occurring in low- and middle-income countries. For a study, researchers sought to provide a comprehensive overview of research related to the accessibility, coverage, patient preferences, and factors influencing patient satisfaction and acceptance of colposcopy in primary healthcare settings. Improving the screening process is crucial in addressing the burden of cervical cancer in these regions.

The study employed an extensive search strategy utilizing MeSH, Emtree, and free terms across five prominent databases: PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Ovid/Medline, and Web of Science. To streamline the screening process, researchers utilized EndNote 20.1© and Rayyan QCRI to streamline the screening process©. Data extraction was organized using a predefined datasheet.

The systematic search initially yielded 1,127 references. Seven studies met the inclusion criteria after removing duplicates, title and abstract screening, and a full-text review. The interrater reliability among reviewers was 77.73% (kappa statistic = 0.1842). Most of these studies focused on assessing the proportion of women who sought colposcopy following a prior screening for human papillomavirus. Additionally, one study explored the barriers to colposcopy examination among women at risk of developing cervical cancer. Three studies investigated the decentralization of colposcopy services from tertiary healthcare centers to primary care facilities. Pap smear emerged as the most common initial screening test, followed by liquid-based cytology samples and visual inspection with acetic acid.

The utilization of colposcopy in primary care settings has been explored in only a handful of countries. To successfully implement such programs and effectively reduce cervical cancer incidence and mortality, it is imperative to identify and address the barriers and structural requirements associated with colposcopy in primary healthcare. The study highlighted the pressing need for further research and intervention in this critical area of women’s health.

Source: journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/21501319231198942