A £1.3 million Cancer Research UK-funded study led by the University of Aberdeen is taking a significant step towards addressing persistent inequalities in cervical cancer outcomes and shaping future screening policy in Scotland.
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer, yet women living in the most deprived communities in Scotland are still twice as likely to develop the disease and three times more likely to die from it than those in more affluent areas. While HPV vaccination has transformed prevention for younger cohorts, screening remains essential for early detection - particularly for those who were not vaccinated in childhood. Persistent barriers, including limited access to appointments, childcare responsibilities, fear, embarrassment, and cultural stigma, continue to limit uptake.
The AYEScreen project, led by cancer epidemiologist Dr Sharon Hanley, is designed to tackle these challenges directly. Working with GP practices serving deprived, remote, and rural populations, the project will test HPV self-sampling as a more flexible and inclusive alternative to traditional screening. By enabling participants to take their own sample with a simple swab (cotton bud) at a time and place that suits them, self-sampling has the potential to significantly increase participations amongst those least likely to attend traditional clinician-led appointments.
The AYEScreen project will trail three delivery models: offering self-sampling opportunistically in GP practices; enabling women to order kits via text message and return them by post; and a nurse-led phone call to discuss the importance of screening and address any concerns individuals may have, before offering self-sampling via the post. AYEScreen aims to empower those who could face discrimination and are disproportionately disadvantaged, including transmen, and help protect them from a highly preventable cancer.
Beyond participation, AYEScreen will assess effectiveness and cost efficiency, generating an evidence base to inform national policy. The findings are expected to support the Scottish Government as it considers introducing HPV self-sampling into the national cervical screening programme, a key component of Scotland’s contribution to the World Health Organization global cervical cancer elimination strategy.
Supported by Cancer Research UK, AYEScreen demonstrates how applied, partnership-driven research can influence health policy, strengthen primary care practice, and deliver system-level change bringing Scotland closer to eliminating health inequality.