Young Danish HPV vaccinated women’s knowledge, barriers and facilitators towards cervical cancer screening: A qualitative study

Cervical cancer occurs more often in under-screened women, and participation rates in cervical cancer screening among young women are worryingly low worldwide. In Denmark only about half the women in their twenties participate in cervical cancer screening. 64–80% of women between 20 and 29 have been HPV vaccinated with a vaccine protecting against 70% of all cervical cancers. Thus screening is still an important supplement to HPV vaccination for the next decades. The aim of this study was to investigate knowledge, facilitators and barriers towards cervical cancer screening among young HPV vaccinated women in Denmark. This qualitative study used an anthropological approach, and data was collected using semi structured focus group interviews as this is an effective method for promoting self-disclosure among participants. Eight focus groups were conducted with participation of 49 HPV vaccinated women aged 20–29 years. We identified five main themes providing an understanding of the women’s barriers and facilitators towards cervical cancer screening: Lack of knowledge about HPV and cervical cancer, the screening invitation, the GP as gatekeeper, the gynaecological examination and perceived relevance of cervical cancer screening. Former vaccination did not impact the women’s reflection about screening attendance. We argue that systematic information and the attitude and tone of the GP are the primary facilitators for filling the knowledge gap we found among young HPV vaccinated women. As an important gatekeeper, the GP can explain, motivate and remind young women about the importance of a regular Pap smear.