Diana Wangeshi Njuguna, BSN, MSN, PhD
DIANA NJUGUNA
Nominated From: University of Washington
Research Site: Kenyatta National Hospital; Dedan Kimathi University of Technology
Research Area: Cervical Cancer
Primary Mentor: Christine McGrath, PhD, MPH
Research Project
Strengthening cervical cancer prevention: Engaging mother-daughter dyads through interactive human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and screening initiatives in Kenya
This study aims to strengthen cervical cancer prevention efforts in Kenya by engaging mother-daughter dyads through an interactive, culturally tailored behavioral and educative approach using body mapping, storytelling, and role playing. Using a mixed-methods approach guided by the EPIS (Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, Sustainment) framework, this research incorporates participatory design workshops to identify barriers and facilitators to cervical cancer prevention. It includes pilot testing of interactive activities to evaluate feasibility and acceptability, and a multi-stakeholder workshop to co-develop a roadmap for sustaining and scaling the intervention within Kenya’s health and education systems. By leveraging family-centered communication and collaboration, this study will increase HPV vaccine uptake and screening rates, reduce misinformation, and promote sustainable, community-driven cervical cancer prevention strategies.
Research Significance
This study will contribute to cervical cancer prevention efforts in Kenya by addressing key knowledge gaps through a culturally appropriate, scalable approach. While existing studies have primarily focused on raising awareness about cervical cancer screening and HPV vaccination, they often fail to address strategies that engage both mothers and daughters. By targeting this dyad, the intervention aims to enhance prevention outcomes by increasing cervical cancer screening and HPV vaccine uptake. The proposed research is innovative, because it represents a departure from the status quo. This study heavily relies on the interactions between mothers and daughters and how collaboratively they hold the potential to improve cervical cancer prevention outcomes. By leveraging this dyad, engaging mothers and daughters in interactive activities like role playing contributes to efforts to promote family-oriented strategies for promoting health. Engaging in sensitive conversations that touch on the health of women and girls will motivate the dyads to take control of their health and champion cervical cancer preventive behaviours in their communities. The innovative approach of jointly co-developing a roadmap for the sustainment and scalability of dyadic interactive activities within Kenya’s health and education systems is impactful as it promotes intervention acceptability, relevance, and sustainability, particularly in low-resource settings.
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Mentors
