Health Capsule

Cervical cancer often develops without noticeable symptoms, making it difficult to detect in its early stages. However, a screening test is available to identify the virus responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases. This virus, known as human papillomavirus or HPV, can be detected early through testing, allowing for timely treatment that may prevent the disease and save lives.

Despite this, many women either skip regular screenings or have never been screened. Scientists supported by the NIH conducted research to evaluate whether offering sample collection at home could boost participation in cervical cancer screening. The study involved around 2,500 women who were overdue for a screening exam.

Participants were divided into groups. One group received a call encouraging them to visit a clinic for screening. Another group got the same call along with a home testing kit they could use to collect a sample themselves and mail it back for analysis. A third group received the call, a home test kit, and an additional follow-up call prompting them to send back their sample.

Over 40% of women who received home collection kits followed through with screening. This group was over twice as likely to complete the process compared to those who only received a reminder phone call. The highest completion rates were among those who received both the kit and a follow-up call—suggesting enhanced accessibility could help overcome barriers to early detection of this largely preventable illness.

“Our research shows that self-sampling can play a key role in increasing access to cervical cancer screening,” says Dr. Jane Montealegre, lead researcher from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. “This approach may help reduce the impact of cervical cancer in the United States.”