Retention Intervention for Cervical Cancer and HIV

This trial aims to assist women living with HIV who have received high-risk abnormal Pap smear results. The goal is to develop and test a new intervention to improve follow-up care, making it easier for these women to attend necessary healthcare appointments and manage their cervical cancer care. Participants will receive either a personalized support program, which includes sessions and text message reminders, or standard care. This personalized support program is part of the retention in cervical cancer care intervention. Women with HIV, a cervix, and a recent high-risk abnormal Pap result may be suitable candidates for this trial. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative care solutions for women facing similar health challenges.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your healthcare provider.

Research has shown that programs designed to help people stay in cervical cancer care are generally safe. While specific safety data for this exact program is not available, these types of programs usually include supportive sessions and reminder messages, which participants typically handle well.

In similar studies, women with HIV who joined these programs reported very few, if any, negative effects. These programs mainly help patients follow their healthcare plans by providing support, rather than involving medical procedures or drugs. As a result, there are usually very few safety concerns.

Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores a new way to keep patients engaged in cervical cancer care, especially those also living with HIV. Unlike standard treatments that focus solely on medical procedures, this intervention includes personalized in-person sessions and ongoing support through text messages. This approach is designed to help patients overcome barriers to care by providing regular reminders and custom strategies, potentially leading to better health outcomes. By combining human interaction with digital communication, the trial aims to enhance patient retention and adherence, which is crucial for managing both cervical cancer and HIV effectively.

Research has shown that integrating cervical cancer prevention with HIV care can effectively address both health issues. Studies have found that women with HIV often struggle to continue their care after cervical cancer screenings due to lack of support and financial difficulties. For example, a study in Côte d'Ivoire found that only 54% of women with HIV began cancer treatment, highlighting the need for better ways to keep them in care. Increasing awareness among healthcare providers about the link between HIV and cervical cancer can also help. In this trial, the intervention group will receive support sessions and reminder messages, which may improve attendance at follow-up appointments and completion of treatment. Meanwhile, the treatment-as-usual group will receive standard care, including notifications of abnormal Pap results and instructions to set up follow-up appointments.¹²³⁶⁷