Survey on the Trends in Uterine Cervical Cancer Screening in Japanese Women: the Efficacy of Free Coupons in the Screening

Aims: In Japan, cytological examination is performed for uterine cervical cancer screening, but the rate of participation in these programs is low. Between October 1, 2009 and March 31, 2010, free coupons for uterine cervical cancer screening were distributed to Japanese women. The Fukuoka Tuberculosis Prevention Center investigated the trends in uterine cervical cancer screening participation of Japanese women in the 6-month screening program.

Material And Methods: The subjects were 1523 women who underwent cervical smear cytology at the Fukuoka Tuberculosis Prevention Center between October 1, 2009 and March 31, 2010. A questionnaire survey based on multiple questions was performed to evaluate awareness about uterine cervical cancer screening for women undergoing screening by cervical smear cytology.

Results: The results of the study showed that the rate of women undergoing repeated screening was high among women who underwent screening as part of health checkups that were paid for by the employer according to the recommendations of the Industrial Safety and Health Act. Women who had not undergone the screening previously were motivated to participate after receiving the free coupons.

Conclusions: The distribution of free coupons serves as an initial step towards promoting awareness of preventive measures against uterine cervical cancer.