Exploring the barriers to cervical screening uptake among women from minority ethnic backgrounds: a literature review

Cervical screening is essential to reduce the incidence of cervical cancer. However, participation in this procedure has been declining year-on-year in the UK. National UK data on cervical screening by ethnicity is limited, but evidence suggests there are lower attendance rates among women from Black, Asian and other minority ethnic backgrounds compared with white British women. This article details a literature review that aimed to explore the barriers to cervical screening uptake among women from minority ethnic backgrounds living in the UK. Seven qualitative studies were reviewed. Thematic analysis generated four main themes: knowledge barriers, sociocultural barriers, emotional barriers and healthcare access barriers. The findings highlight the need to provide culturally sensitive education about cervical cancer and screening and to ensure provision of equitable services that meet the specific needs of local diverse populations. Nurses should be mindful that this issue may also affect trans men and non-binary people.