Implementing HPV DNA Self-Collection to Increase Rates of Cervical Cancer Screening in Transgender Men

Implementing HPV DNA Self-Collection to Increase Rates of Cervical Cancer Screening in Transgender Men

Transgender men are individuals born genetically female that have a gender identity that is incongruent with their biological sex. For those who have begun or completed transition, they may present as males but still have a uterus and cervix. Thus far, no distinction has been made between routine cervical cancer screening guidelines in non-transgender women and those for transgender men, despite wide variations in sexual practices, including lifelong vaginal abstinence. The purpose of this study is to offer transgender men seen at clinic visits self-collected HPV testing to evaluate for improved cervical cancer screening rates, as well as a survey to further investigate sexual practices, rates of appropriate screening prior to being offered self-collection, and barriers to obtaining appropriate care.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age >21 for survey and age> 25 for HPV testing
• Transgender male or gender non-conforming identity
• Female sex at birth
• Consent to participate in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

• impaired decision making capacity
• Absence of cervix
• Non-English speaking