Beyond Access and Awareness: The Role of Patient Experience and Physician Communication in Cervical Cancer Screening Participation in Hungary

Background/Objectives: To evaluate cervical cancer screening participation among women in Hungary and to identify motivators, barriers, experiences, and social factors associated with screening attendance. Methods: A cross-sectional survey with nationwide recruitment was conducted between November 2023 and September 2024 using non-probability voluntary sampling through a patient-foundation campaign, social media and other online communication channels, and community-based distribution of paper questionnaires. The survey assessed cervical cancer screening participation, time since last screening, screening frequency, healthcare setting, screening-related experiences, and perceived motivators and barriers. Sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics, self-rated health, and communication about screening within the social environment were also collected. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and subgroup comparisons. Associations were evaluated using chi-square tests with effect sizes reported as Cramér’s V. Responses to open-ended questions were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Results: A total of 5196 women were included in the analysis. Overall, 59.8% reported screening within the past year, while 17.3% attended more than two years earlier and 3.5% never went for screening. Screening participation was highest among women aged 25–54 years and lower among younger and older age groups. Communication about screening within the social environment was associated with more recent and more regular attendance. The proportion reporting screening within the past year was highest among women aged 25–54 years and lower among younger and older age groups. Women who reported discussing cervical cancer screening within their social environment were more likely to report recent and regular screening attendance. Screening experiences were generally favorable, although physical and emotional aspects were rated less positively. The most frequently reported motivation for attending screening was consciousness/health awareness, whereas major barriers included negative healthcare experiences, limited access to services, cost of private care, fear of diagnosis, and time constraints. Conclusions: Cervical cancer screening participation in this sample was high but varied across demographic, experiential, and social factors. Age and communication about screening were the factors most strongly associated with screening behavior, while structural barriers and negative healthcare experiences were common answers for reduced participation.