There is a growing worldwide movement encouraging the use of human papillomavirus (HPV) testing alone for the early detection of cervical cancer. This is instead of the standard Pap smear or co-testing with both tests.
In April 2014, the use of an HPV test for primary cervical cancer screening was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States. This resulted in the need for greater guidance on the issue, which is being spearheaded by a group of cervical cancer screening experts from the University of Alabama. Its position on the use of HPV testing first and foremost for cervical cancer is being published in medical journals in the United States.
The main findings of the experts are:
The effectiveness of HPV testing means that it can and should be regarded as an alternative to cytology-based cervical cancer screening (the Pap smear).
The Pap smear misses 46% of HPV while HPV testing picks up 98% of HPV.
Studies done in the US and Europe are reaching the same result; HPV testing provides a more sensitive and more accurate screening process than the Pap smear.
Earlier and more accurate detection of HPV can save lives. With majority of women between the ages of 25 and 65, it is important to increase awareness of this silent killer which is cervical cancer.
The UDoHPVTest makes HPV testing quicker, easier and less intrusive instead of long waits at a doctor’s office for a Pap smear, the UDoHPVTest is a self-sampling test done in the comfort of your own home.