The Effect of Anal Dysplasia and Cancer Screening Education on Attitudes, Beliefs, and Self-Efficacy.

Abstract

Introduction: The incidence of anal cancer among individuals who are HIV-positive is estimated to be 80-fold higher than the general population. Implementation of anal dysplasia and cancer screening programs has been successful in urban HIV clinics. Lack of provider training is a primary barrier to such programs. The most effective method of increasing cancer screening among providers is interactive professional education. Methods: HIV care providers from a large medical institution in Chicago completed baseline surveys about knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and measures of self-efficacy. They then participated in an interactive presentation. The survey was readministered following the presentation. Results: We had 100% survey completion by the 11 providers who participated. Significant differences were found in total scores (p < .01), perceived norms (p = .02), perceived behavioral control (p = .01), and intent to screen (p = .01). Discussion: Our findings suggest that HIV care providers respond well to education about screening practices. Most important, they left the sessions with increased intention to incorporate anal dysplasia and cancer screening in their clinical settings. Our recommendation is to incorporate interactive provider education into clinical practice.