Clinical and psychosocial constructs for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screening participation: A systematic review

Research has identified a wide range of psychosocial factors associated to choosing to engage in ongoing cancer screenings. Nevertheless, a systematic review of the theoretical frameworks and constructs underpinning studies on breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screening participation has yet to be conducted. As part of the action -research project Miriade, the present study aims to identifying the main theoretical frameworks and constructs adopted in the literature over the past five years to explain cancer screening participation. According to the PRISMA guidelines, a search of the MEDLINE/PubMed and PsycINFO databases was made. Empirical studies con-ducted from 2017 to 2021 were included. The following keywords were used: breast OR cervical OR colorectal screening AND adhesion OR participation OR engagement AND theoretical framework OR conceptual framework OR the-ory. Overall, 24 articles met the inclusion criteria. Each theoretical framework highlighted clinical and psychoso-cial constructs of cancer screening participation, focusing on the individuals (psycho-emotional functioning and skills plan) and/or the health services perspectives. Findings from the present study acknowledge the plurality of the theoretical frameworks and constructs adopted to predict or promote breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screening adhesion and the need for new research efforts to improve the effectiveness of cancer screening promo-tion interventions.

Automated summary

Research has found various psychosocial factors associated with ongoing cancer screenings, but a systematic review on the theoretical frameworks and constructs used in studies on breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screening participation has not been conducted. This study aimed to identify the main theoretical frameworks and constructs in the literature over the past five years to explain cancer screening participation. A search of databases was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines and 24 articles met the inclusion criteria. The findings highlight the diverse theoretical frameworks and constructs used to predict or promote cancer screening adherence and emphasize the need for further research to improve screening promotion interventions.