Self-sampling study in Espoo in 2008-2009

A pilot study on the use of self-sampling tests as a part of a routine screening programme in Finland was conducted in the City of Espoo in 2008-2009. Non-participants of the screening programme received either a reminder letter (a written re-invitation to screening) or a self-sampling test, or both. 32% of the initial non-attenders that received a self-sampling test, and 26% of those that received a reminder letter, took part in screening. Both interventions increased total attendance in study years by approximately 10%. When a self-sampling test was sent as a third intervention after two invitation letters, the increase in total attendance was 15%.