Type: article
Abstract: Persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) is a major prerequisite for the development of most cases of cervical cancer, yet screening coverage remains insufficient even in countries with organised prevention programmes. In 2022, approximately 660,000 new cases of cervical cancer and 350,000 related deaths were recorded worldwide, with most deaths occurring in lowand middle-income countries. Against this background, self-sampling for HPV testing is regarded as a practical approach to expanding cervical cancer screening (CCS). This article evaluates the clinical utility of HPV self-sampling as a method for increasing CCS coverage. It is shown that polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based testing of self-collected vaginal samples for hrHPV can achieve performance close to that of clinician-collected samples when validated devices, appropriate transport media and standardised laboratory procedures are used. Mailed kits, direct offers of self-sampling and patient navigation may increase participation in screening; however, the clinical effect depends not only on the test itself, but also on subsequent routing, follow-up and timely treatment after a positive result. HPV self-sampling should therefore be considered a component of an organised prevention system that improves access to screening, rather than a separate consumer test.
Source: CyberLeninK (CyberLeninka)
Author: Nazarbekova Aigerim Talgatovna
Language: English
Subfield: Epidemiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7166253832