Home / Health / New ACS Guidelines: At-Home HPV Tests for Cervical Cancer
New ACS Guidelines: At-Home HPV Tests for Cervical Cancer
4 Dec
Summary
- Self-collection for HPV testing is now an accepted cervical cancer screening method.
- New American Cancer Society guidelines recommend HPV testing starting at age 25.
- Self-collection aims to increase screening rates, especially for underserved groups.
The American Cancer Society has released new guidelines recommending self-collection for HPV testing as a viable alternative to traditional Pap smears for cervical cancer screening. This endorsement, supported by years of data and recent regulatory approvals, allows individuals to collect vaginal samples privately, either at home or in a clinical setting, to test for the human papillomavirus.
These updated recommendations begin screening at age 25 with HPV testing, recommending repeat testing every three years for those with average risk and negative results. This strategy is expected to significantly boost screening participation, addressing disparities seen in recent immigrant and uninsured populations. Self-collection aims to mitigate barriers such as discomfort, cultural stigma, and logistical challenges.
