Abstract 38: Impact of a Peer-Led Educational Program Adaptation and Implementation on Gender Perspectives of Stigma, Discrimination, and Autonomy in Decision-Making Relative to Cervical Cancer in Senegal

Abstract Purpose: Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), including Senegal. This study aims to evaluate the impact of a peer-to-peer educational program on addressing stigma, discrimination, and autonomy in decision-making related to cervical cancer screening among men and women in the Kédougou region of Senegal. Methods: A longitudinal pre- and post-intervention survey was conducted with participants from nine communities in the Kédougou region. The intervention used a care group model to deliver cervical cancer education, targeting stigma reduction and promoting autonomy in healthcare decision-making. Surveys assessed knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding cervical cancer screening. Data were analyzed for changes in key indicators, such as screening uptake, stigma reduction, and shifts in gendered decision- making dynamics. Results: Preliminary findings indicate significant increases in cervical cancer screening rates among women, rising from 15.9% pre-intervention to 44.5% post-intervention. Notable reductions in stigma- related barriers, such as embarrassment and fear, were observed. Gender dynamics also shifted, with more women reporting autonomy in healthcare decision-making post-intervention (26.3% compared to 13.9% pre-intervention). Additionally, men demonstrated increased awareness of cervical cancer risks and the importance of screening. Conclusion: The peer-to-peer educational program significantly improved cervical cancer screening uptake and reduced stigma in the Kédougou region. The intervention also fostered more equitable gender dynamics in health decision-making. These findings highlight the potential of community-driven educational models to address systemic barriers to cervical cancer prevention in LMICs, providing a scalable approach for similar contexts globally. This study underscores the critical role of tailored interventions in advancing equitable cancer control and prevention strategies in resource-limited settings. Citation Format: Ahmadou Babana El Alaoui, Elle Martell, Caryn E. Peterson, J. Andrew Dykens. Impact of a Peer-Led Educational Program Adaptation and Implementation on Gender Perspectives of Stigma, Discrimination, and Autonomy in Decision-Making Relative to Cervical Cancer in Senegal [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 13th Annual Symposium on Global Cancer Research; 2025 Sep 16. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2025;34(12_Suppl):Abstract nr 38.