Barriers and Facilitators to Adherence to Precancerous Cervical Lesion Treatment Follow-ups Among Women in Harar, Ethiopia: A Qualitative Study

Background: For precancerous cervical lesion (PCL) treatment to be effective and minimizing its consequences, adherence to treatment follow-ups is essential. However, in Ethiopia, women frequently do not follow suggested schedules, and barriers and facilitators are understudied, particularly in Harar city. Purpose: This study aimed at exploring barriers and facilitators to adherence to precancerous cervical lesion treatment follow-up. This information can help inform prevention interventions. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted at a large regional oncology center in Harar, Ethiopia between March and April 2023. The study included a purposive sample of 14 women with precancerous cervical lesions for individual in-depth interviews, as well as 10 nurses working with patients at the oncology center for focus group discussions. Participants interviewed individually using semi-structured interviews guide with the assistance of a voice recorder and field notes. The data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using a thematic approach. Results: The study identified three major themes for barriers and five major themes for facilitators of adherence to precancerous cervical lesion treatment follow-ups. Conclusion: Personal, clinical, and social barriers impact adherence to precancerous cervical lesion treatment follow-ups. Strategies such as reminders, template preparation, counseling, nearby access, and media awareness can help improve adherence. It is essential to develop programs that are patient, family, society, and clinical-oriented, culturally sensitive, and inclusive to effectively address these barriers.