self collection According to recent updates to the American Cancer Society (ACS) guidelines, collecting a vaginal sample for human papillomavirus (HPV) testing is now considered an acceptable and recommended option for cervical cancer screening. CA: Cancer Journal for Clinicians.
Another important update to the ACS guidelines is the age at which cervical cancer screening can be discontinued.
Dr. Robert Smith
“These updated recommendations will help improve screening adherence and reduce the risk of cervical cancer,” said the lead author. Dr. Robert SmithACS, Senior Vice President, Early Cancer Detection Sciences. “These have been made possible as we continue to evolve our approach to cervical cancer screening, primarily through research advances and the development of self-collection tools to expand access to screening.”
Updated guidelines
The updated cervical cancer screening guidelines expand on the 2020 ACS guidelines, which provided screening recommendations for average-risk women and individuals with an average cervix who are at average risk of developing cervical cancer, based on new research and clinical evidence that supports these changes.
In updated guidelines, the ACS recognizes the benefits of self-collected specimens as a way to increase access to cervical cancer.
Lisa Lacasse
“Geographic disparities in cervical cancer incidence and mortality continue to exist, with people living in rural areas more likely to be diagnosed with late-stage cervical cancer. More than 46 million people, or 14% of the U.S. population, live in rural areas and are often required to travel long distances to receive health care.” Lisa Lacasse Chairman of the ACS Cancer Action Network (CAN). “Self-collection options are an important resource for these and other underserved populations. ACS CAN remains committed to working with policymakers to strengthen access to cervical cancer screening and necessary follow-up care at no additional cost.”
These guidelines, in conjunction with the Permanent Consensus Cervical Cancer Screening and Management Guidelines Committee, recommend screening for average-risk individuals between the ages of 25 and 65, with a clinician-collected cervical specimen preferred, but self-collection of a U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved test is acceptable.
Disclosure: For the study authors’ full disclosure, please visit: acsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com.