Key facts
- NHS England is providing free home testing kits for cervical cancer to women who have missed screening appointments.
- The kits test for high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV), a primary cause of cervical cancer.
- The initiative targets eligible women aged 30 to 65 who have not attended their scheduled screenings.
- The program aims to increase screening uptake, with current rates at 68.8%, below the 80% target.
- The ultimate goal is to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040.
NHS England is launching a significant initiative to combat low cervical screening rates by offering free home testing kits to millions of women. The program aims to provide a convenient and discreet alternative for those who have missed in-person appointments, with the ultimate goal of eliminating cervical cancer by 2040.
The kits contain a swab for self-collection of a vaginal sample, which is then mailed to NHS labs for testing for high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is responsible for nearly all cervical cancers. If high-risk HPV is detected, the patient will be invited for a clinical screening.
Starting Tuesday, eligible women aged 30 to 65 who are not up to date with their screenings will receive invitations through various NHS channels. This move comes as only about two-thirds of women attend their scheduled appointments, leaving an estimated 4 million not up to date. Health officials and cancer charities have welcomed the initiative, describing it as a "gamechanger" and a "step-change" that will help overcome barriers such as embarrassment, lack of time, or discomfort associated with traditional screenings.