NHS Rolls Out HPV Home Tests: Who’s Eligible?

Cervical screenings are key to spotting cell abnormalities and HPV (responsible for 99% of cervical cancers) early, preventing any changes from turning into cancer.

Since 1964, these screenings have been done through smear tests in the UK, in which a “soft brush” is inserted into a person’s cervix to collect cells.

But one in three eligible women don’t take up invitations for “smear” tests, the NHS said.

The health service’s national clinical director for women’s health, Sue Mann, said: “There are lots of reasons that may stop women from getting their cervical screening – embarrassment, lack of time, or worries about discomfort.”

So, they have started to roll out a new “life-saving” at-home kit for millions of women.

Here’s all you need to know:

It contains a long cotton swab, which is used to collect a sample from a person’s vagina. This is then sent back to the NHS for free, where experts will look for the presence of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV).

HPV causes an overwhelming majority of cervical cancers. And two types of HPV alone – HPV 16 and HPV 18 – account for 70% of those cases.

If high-risk HPV is detected, the patient will be asked to visit their GP for a cervical screening. This process will gather cells to check for abnormal growth.

The NHS said that in-person screens are still the best way to detect cervical cancer (these appointments check for HPV, but also include cell samples).

However, given that “millions” of women miss their appointments, Mann said: “Offering… an alternative test they can do from the comfort of their own homes will be a gamechanger – making it easier than ever for them to get tested for HPV.”

The program is invitation-only and is being rolled out at different rates across the UK.

It’s currently for women aged 30-65 who’ve missed their last cervical screening. Women are usually asked to have a cervical screening every five years starting from 24, with more frequent appointments usually scheduled if they have HPV.

“If you’re invited to take part, please order a test – it’s a simple swab you can do at home in minutes,” Mann beseeched women.