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HPV urine test 'should be used instead of cervical smear'

Women should have their urine tested instead of a cervical smear test to screen for the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), an STD which can lead to cancer, experts have said.

Researchers from Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry found urine tests had "good accuracy" when it came to detecting HPV.

Scientists hope adopting urine tests would boost HPV detection and save lives, as it is a less invasive and painful option than a cervical smear test.

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HPV urine test could lead to 'self-sampling'

Urine tests for HPV could boost the number of lives saved by allowing women to take part in the screening process in the privacy of their own homes, scientists have said.

Researchers behind a study on alternatives to cervical smear tests, published on thebmj.com, explained:

In well-resourced health systems, self-sampling could be used for women who are reluctant to attend for regular cervical screening.

In lower income countries that lack infrastructure, self-sampling might even be beneficial and cost effective for all women who are eligible for screening.

More research is now required to identify the true clinical performance and acceptability of urine testing for HPV in both settings.

– Spokesperson for researchers
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HPV urine test 'should be used instead of cervical smear'

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