The Hounslow Health Engagement Lead delivered two tailored workshops at the Afghan and Central Asian Association (ACAA) in Feltham, which was well attended by approximately 40 – 45 women. Sessions were delivered mainly in Farsi with the help of a volunteer interpreter, and some women participated in Urdu conversations.
Key outcomes highlighted:
- Participants had no understanding about the difference between screening and diagnosis, as in their home countries screening programmes do not exist.
- Women were hesitant to visit a nurse, as they would prefer going to a doctor for any medical procedure.
- Mothers with daughters in their 20s are very hesitant to let their daughter undertake a screening, as they felt it would tamper with their virginity.
Educational learning on the day focused on:
- Explaining the screening process and purpose in a friendly and informal manner.
- The role and capabilities of nurses, reinforcing that they fully qualified and authorised to carry out screenings, and that these do not need to be doctor led.
- Explanations that the hymen is not ruptured during a cervical screening.
- Symptoms and when to visit their GP.
Attendees are still hesitant to undergo a screening but are happy to continue with educational learning. The health engagement lead has planned a third workshop in February 2025 and will continue to deliver targeted engagement at regular intervals during 2025 to increase attendee confidence in cervical screening.