Formative research to design content of SMS messages addressed to HPV+ women to increase their adherence to triage: the ATICA study

SANCHEZ ANTELO V; CUROTTO, MARIANA; PAOLINO M; KOHLER, RACQUEL E.; VISWANATH, KASISOMAYAJULA; ARROSSI S

Sydney

Conferencia; 32nd International Papilomavirus Conference; 2018

IPVS

Background: SMS interventions are effective in promoting a variety of health behaviors; however, there is scarce information regarding SMS use for cervical cancer screening and follow-up care. The ATICA Study (Application of Communication and Information Technologies to Self-Collection, for its initials in Spanish) aims to evaluate a multi-component mHealth intervention to increase triage adherence among women with HPV+ self-collected tests in Jujuy, Argentina. Here, we describe the formative results used to design the content of the SMS to be tested in the trial.Objective: To understand cultural and contextual elements, women?s beliefs and perceptions regarding the use of SMS from the health care system, and women?s preferences about the message content.Methods: We conducted six focus groups, stratified by rural/urban residence and age. All participants were aged 30 or older and had performed HPV self-collection. Participatory techniques, including brainstorming, card-based classification and discussions were used to debate the advantages and disadvantages of messages. We openly coded the discussions for agreements and preferences regarding SMS content.Results: Forty-eight women participated in the FG. Participants viewed the use of SMS for notifying test result availability positively; however, the delivery of HPV results via SMS was deemed negative. Feedback on message content indicated it should strengthen communication between patients and the health care professionals, use a formal yet warm tone, and not include details regarding HPV results. Participants preferred messages addressed to recipients individually, which sacrifices confidentiality, but is crucial when cellphones are used by multiple family members.Conclusions: Results suggest SMS is accepted when notifying women about HPV result availability, but it should not replace face-to-face, doctor-patient encounters. Messages must be tailored and have a persuasive tone in order to motivate women to act on the information and adhere to triage.