Effect of single‐visit VIA and cryotherapy cervical cancer prevention program in Roi Et, Thailand: A preliminary report

Abstract Aim: To assess the effect of introducing visual inspection with acetic acid and cryotherapy on cervical cancer incidence rates in Roi Et province over time, between 1997 and 2006, and compare this with two nearby provinces. Methods: Data from two cancer registration units, one in Srinagarind Hospital and another in Ubon Ratchathani Cancer Center (to which all cervical cancer patients were referred from the three study provinces) were registered, extracted, combined and analyzed using a generalized estimation equation. Results: Cervical cancer detection rates improved. These are represented by the apparent increased incidence rates in Roi Et province during the study period compared with two nearby provinces ( P = 0.01), equivalent to a doubling of the previously reported age‐standardized incidence ratio and three times its baseline in 2006. Conclusions: A single‐visit approach to cervical cancer prevention in Roi Et province using visual inspection with acetic acid and cryotherapy appeared to have an effect in revealing an increased cervical cancer incidence rate by achieving higher coverage, resulting in increased case finding.