Healthcare professionals' communication practices and preparedness in organised human papillomavirus-based cervical Cancer screening: A cross-sectional study in Central Portugal

Objective To evaluate healthcare professionals' knowledge, attitudes, communication confidence and practices within an organised human papillomavirus (HPV)-based cervical cancer screening programme and identify factors associated with communication practices. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 470 general practitioners and nurses involved in organised cervical cancer screening in Portugal's Central Region, January–March 2024. Participants completed a 28-item questionnaire. Exploratory factor analysis identified communication domains, and generalised linear models examined factors associated with communication practices. Results Knowledge of HPV infection and screening was relatively high, with gaps in HPV test interpretation and clinical management. General practitioners reported greater communication confidence than nurses. HPV infection- and screening-related information was communicated more frequently than information concerning HPV transmission and oncogenic risk. Professional group, knowledge of HPV infection and screening guidelines, communication confidence and communication of HPV test results were independently associated with the HPV infection and screening-related communication domain. No significant associations were identified for communication of HPV transmission and oncogenic risk. Conclusions Despite relatively high knowledge, gaps remained in knowledge and communication practices, particularly regarding HPV transmission and oncogenic risk. Professional training integrating clinical knowledge with communication about HPV, cervical cancer screening and cancer risk may strengthen healthcare professionals' preparedness for HPV-based screening.