(141) Piloting a Culturally Responsive Cervical Cancer Screening Website for Queer Cisgender Women

Abstract Introduction Cervical cancer is highly preventable and more easily treatable if detected early through regular cervical cancer screening. Mounting evidence demonstrates that Queer cisgender women (eg, women who identify as bisexual, pansexual, lesbian, Queer, and otherwise non-heterosexual) experience significant disparities in cervical cancer screening access and uptake. Studies show that Queer cisgender women (henceforward, Queer women) have 46-87% lower odds of ever receiving cervical cancer screening compared to their heterosexual counterparts, with exacerbated disparities among Queer women of color owing to intersectional systems of power. In 2024, our team conducted interviews with 15 Queer women about barriers to screening and recommendations for address screening gaps. Participants described a lack of availability of cervical cancer screening information tailored to Queer women’s needs. Therefore, it is imperative to address Queer women’s informational needs to improve screening uptake and advance reproductive health equity. In response to this gap, we partnered with a justice-oriented web designer to co-create a website that provides culturally responsive screening information for Queer women. Objective The purpose of this study is to pilot the culturally responsive cervical cancer screening website with a group of racially and ethnically diverse Queer women to understand their perspectives on the site. Methods Participants were recruited through non-probability sampling through our personal and professional networks. Our sample included 14 participants ranging from 22-63 years of age. Around 57% of participants were white, while 43% were women of color. Majority of participants identified as lesbian women (42%) or bisexual women (21%). We conducted 90-minute virtual user testing sessions with participants where they were invited to interact with the website while sharing their reactions verbally. Afterwards, participants were asked open-ended questions to contextualize their user experience further. Data from our interviews were preliminarily analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Results We found high levels of acceptability towards the website’s content and design, including the images, color scheme, structure, and overall messaging. Participants felt the site was easily navigable and information was accessible across age and levels of technological proficiency. Most participants noted increased knowledge of cervical cancer, the screening process, and affirming options available during exams. Participants also felt more prepared to advocate for their needs and discuss their concerns with providers. Many participants reported that the site appropriately addressed screening fears and concerns relevant to Queer women, which can play a critical role in screening avoidance and delaying reproductive care. Importantly, those who had never been screened or were not up to date with screening guidelines expressed an increased willingness to schedule an exam after interacting with the site. To improve the site, participants desired the addition of information linking Queer women to social support groups in their community, information on locating affirming providers, and downloadable/printable resources to bring to screening appointments. Conclusions Our preliminary findings demonstrate that our culturally responsive website is highly acceptable among Queer women and addresses their informational needs. Supporting Queer women’s cervical cancer decision-making through tailored information is a promising approach to eliminate screening disparities in the long term. Disclosure No.