Co-developing an intervention aiming to increase cervical screening acceptability for Autistic people using realist methods

This project aims to improve cancer outcomes for people in Wales by increasing access to cervical screening for Autistic people, a group that is currently underserved by existing screening programmes. Cervical screening saves lives by detecting cancer early, but many Autistic people do not attend because current services do not meet their needs, increasing the risk of late diagnosis and avoidable deaths.

Using realist methods, this project will identify why current cervical screening services do not work for Autistic people and co-develop an evidence-based intervention to address these gaps. The intervention will be designed with Autistic people and NHS staff to ensure feasibility within existing systems, with potential wider benefits for other underserved groups through principles of Universal Design. This work directly addresses cancer inequalities and supports earlier diagnosis through improved screening uptake.

For people in Wales, this research has the potential to increase participation in cervical screening, support earlier diagnosis of cervical cancer, and reduce inequalities in cancer outcomes for Autistic people. In the longer term, it will help NHS Wales deliver more inclusive, patient-centred screening services and position Wales as a leader in equitable cancer prevention and early diagnosis.