The initial batches of self-collection HPV tests for cervical cancer screening are on their way to clinics and hospitals across the United States. Instead of undergoing a speculum-involved pelvic exam to check for cervical cancer, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved the “do-it-yourself” test to give women the option to collect their own vaginal samples and make the process more accessible.
Until now, millions of women have faced barriers to screening due to discomfort, fear, or limited access to healthcare. With over 13,800 new cases of cervical cancer diagnosed each year in the U.S., and about 4,360 deaths, improving access to screenings is one way to cut these alarming numbers. Many of these cases occur in women who are unscreened or under-screened. Offering a simpler and more empowering method like self-collection HPV tests could help more women catch issues before they develop into cancer.
What You Should Know About the New Self-Collection HPV Solution
The self-collection HPV exam is a less invasive, more comfortable, DIY alternative to traditional screenings, such as Pap smears or HPV tests involving a speculum. Rather than relying on a physician to perform the procedure, patients can use a simple swab to collect their own sample in a private healthcare setting.
Roche, a biotechnology company, and Becton, Dickson, and Company (BD), a medical technology firm, are leading these new self-collection HPV tests. BD already distributes its self-collection tests, and Roche plans to launch its screening solution later in 2024.
Benefits of Self-Collection HPV Testing
A self-collection HPV test makes the screening process easier, quicker, and more acceptable for a wider population. It accurately detects human papillomavirus (HPV), a main cause of cervical cancer, while also giving women more control over the experience. The availability of these tests is a sign of progress in how people receive the screenings they need to detect and prevent cancer progression. Let’s discuss these advantages in more depth below:
1. Alleviating Discomfort and Fear
The self-collection option for HPV testing makes cervical cancer screening less awkward and anxiety-inducing. Many people avoid or delay screening due to discomfort or fear of traditional procedures like Pap smears or pelvic tests. Self-collection is a patient-friendly option that takes away the need for invasive tools and encourages more consistent testing.
“Many patients are uncomfortable with the intimate nature of a pelvic exam,” Dr. Jeff Andrews, a gynecologist and BD’s vice president of global medical affairs for diagnostic solutions, revealed in the company’s announcement on May 15, 2024.
“Many people live in areas without a local doctor or clinician trained to obtain a sample with a speculum,” he added. “The option to self-collect in a clinical setting can help women overcome some of these barriers.”
2. Inclusive Options for Non-Binary and Transgender People
For non-binary individuals and transgender men, traditional cervical screening may cause emotional and physical discomfort. Self-collection is a less intrusive alternative that respects their needs and reduces the stress often associated with the process. This option promotes inclusivity and ensures that more individuals can participate in life-saving screenings.
3. Encourages Early Cervical Cancer Detection
Removing the barriers of pain and discomfort can improve screening rates. With self-collection, more individuals can detect HPV or other abnormalities earlier, leading to better outcomes and reducing the risk of cancer progression. Additional resource: From HIV to AIDS-Related Cancers
How Self-Collection Works
Here’s how self-collecting for HPV works in four steps:
- A healthcare provider orders the test: A clinician places an order for the self-collection test, similar to any other medical exam. During this step, the patient can ask questions to receive clear guidance on how to perform the self-collection and what to expect next.
- Self-collection: In a private setting, such as the clinic’s restroom, the patient inserts the swab a few centimeters into the vagina and rotates it for 20 to 30 seconds to collect the necessary sample. This process eliminates the discomfort of using a speculum during traditional screenings.
- Sending the sample for testing: After collecting the sample, a lab analyzes it for signs of HPV or abnormalities. This step may take one to two weeks.
- Results and follow-up: If the sample shows signs of HPV or abnormalities, the doctor contacts the patient for further testing or follow-up care.
Who Is Eligible for Self-Collection?
The following individuals may qualify for a cervical screening exam:
- Between the ages of 25 and 74
- Have had any form of sexual contact
- A woman or person with a cervix
- Due or overdue for routine cervical screening
When due, the following should consider self-collection, even if they:
- Have received the HPV vaccine
- Are not sexually active or no longer sexually active
- Have had the same partner for a long time, or have only had one partner
- Are pregnant or have recently given birth
- Identify as gay, lesbian, or bisexual
- Are non-binary or transgender and have a cervix
- Have gone through menopause
- Feel healthy and show no symptoms
Self-collection only checks for HPV; it does not detect abnormal cervical cells. If symptoms like unusual bleeding, pain, or discharge occur, self-collection may not be the right option. A medical expert should evaluate the symptoms and suggest the most suitable screening method.
Read 10 Signs of Cervical Cancer — Is Something Wrong Down There? to assess whether HPV self-collection or a different screening technique is the right choice.
Future of Self-Collection and At-Home Testing
While self-collection for HPV screening is available only through doctor recommendations, this option could evolve into a more widespread and convenient method in the near future. Some companies, like BD, are already collaborating with the FDA to make self-collection kits available for at-home use. An at-home option would further reduce barriers for people who avoid in-office appointments due to time constraints, discomfort, or other challenges.
Another company, Teal Health, is developing an at-home cervical cancer screening device called the Teal Wand. In May 2024, the FDA granted it “breakthrough device” status to accelerate the approval process.
If successful, these developments could make cervical cancer screenings more accessible than ever. The main objective is to encourage more people to undergo timely screenings, which leads to earlier detection and better health outcomes.
Cervical Cancer Therapies at New Hope Unlimited
Cervical cancer develops in the cells of the cervix, often due to persistent infection with high-risk types of HPV. After a diagnosis, acting quickly can improve one’s chances of survival. New Hope Unlimited customizes care plans focused on immunotherapy and other advanced treatments for a stronger recovery path. Contact us to schedule an appointment.