At-home tests offered to women to drive down cervical cancer cases
The tests, which can be performed at home, look for the human papillomavirus (HPV) – the virus which is linked to the majority of cases of cervical cancer.
After getting the nod from the UK National Screening Committee in March, the NHS in England is going to offer the tests to certain women.
It is expected that the rollout will begin in January next year.
The NHS offers cervical screening tests – previously known as smear tests – to all women aged 25-64 every three years.
But many people do not take up the offer, with a number citing a lack of time, discomfort or embarrassment.
Data published by the NHS last November showed five million women are not up to date with routine check-ups.
Now officials have said that at-home kits will be offered to women who have rarely or have never attended their cervical screening.
The initiative will see women sent a self-sampling kit in the post which can be returned via pre-paid mail.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting said the move could break down 'barriers that keep millions of women from potentially life-saving tests' (Lucy North/PA)
People who were found to have the HPV virus will be encouraged to attend an in-person appointment with a clinician.
Research has suggested that offering DIY testing kits could boost uptake.
The YouScreen trial, which was led by King's College London in partnership with NHS England, found that offering self-sampling kits to 'under-screened' women when they attend their GP practice and by posting kits to women's homes could boost uptake in England by about 400,000 each year.
The Department of Health and Social Care said the new approach could potentially save about 5,000 lives a year across England.
It said that the new programme 'specifically targets those groups consistently missing vital appointments' including: younger women, those from minority ethnic backgrounds, people with disabilities and LGBT plus people.
Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said: 'These self-sampling kits represent healthcare that works around people's lives, not the other way around.
'They put women firmly in control of their own health, ensuring we catch more cancers at their earliest, most treatable stages.
'Our 10-year health plan will fundamentally reform the NHS, shifting focus from treating illness to preventing it before it starts.
'We know the earlier cancer is diagnosed the better the chances are of survival.
'By making screening more convenient, we're tackling the barriers that keep millions of women from potentially life-saving tests.'
Dr Anita Lim, chief investigator of the YouScreen trial from King's College London, added: 'This is a significant step forward for cervical cancer prevention and brings us closer to the NHS goal of eliminating the disease by 2040.
'The YouScreen trial, which provided self-sampling HPV kits to under-screen women in London, demonstrated that self-sampling could reach people who find it difficult to attend traditional screening – including those from diverse and underserved populations.
'It's hugely positive to see this now reflected in national policy, helping more people get protected from this highly preventable cancer.'
Michelle Kane, NHS England's director of screening, added: 'There are a number of reasons that stop some women taking up the offer of screening and we hope the introduction of self-testing will encourage more women to take up this life-saving test in a way that works for them.
'I'd encourage anyone who gets an invite for a cervical screening, either from their local GP practice or the NHS App, to attend and if you have any worrying symptoms, please contact your GP. It could save your life.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Record
25 minutes ago
- Daily Record
UK tourists must apply for GHIC at least 15 days before flying to Europe
This free document allows Brits to access free or cheaper healthcare while abroad. Brits planning a European getaway this summer are being urged to secure an essential card at least 15 days before departure. This vital piece of documentation grants access to free or reduced-cost healthcare whilst overseas. The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which took over from the widely recognised European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) in use since 2004, is a must-have for travellers. Although travel insurance remains a key recommendation for those holidaying abroad, the GHIC enables you to access public healthcare services across most European nations. The NHS website clarifies: "The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) lets you get necessary state healthcare in the European Economic Area (EEA), and some other countries, on the same basis as a resident of that country. This may be free or it may require a payment equivalent to that which a local resident would pay." For those who still possess a valid EHIC, it can be used until its expiry date. Post-expiry, a GHIC will be required as a replacement. Bear in mind that receiving a new GHIC by post typically takes up to 15 days, so it's wise to apply several weeks ahead of your intended travel dates. How to apply Eligibility for a free UK GHIC extends to UK residents, and applications can include family members. When applying, be prepared to provide: Your full name Your address Your date of birth Your National Insurance number Your Health and Care number (for Northern Ireland residents). Each family member requires an individual card. You have the option to include your spouse, civil partner, and offspring in your application all at once. Your personal information must be entered initially, followed by adding additional cards when prompted. Should you need to append further family members post-application, you ought to contact NHS Overseas Healthcare Services. Your reference number, full name, date of birth, and address are essentials for us to locate your details. Upon submission of your application, expect an email from the NHS within a day's time confirming its approval status - check your spam folder if no communication is received. The NHS may request supplementary information or documents to proceed with approval. In the event that your card does not arrive before travelling, and you require medical attention, apply for a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC) for interim coverage. What it covers The card enables access to state healthcare services during your stay that cannot be postponed until your return to the UK, often termed "medically necessary healthcare". This encompasses situations such as:. Emergency interventions and A&E attendance Management of chronic or pre-existing conditions Routine antenatal care provided giving birth abroad is not the purpose of your trip Certain treatments, such as kidney dialysis or chemotherapy, will need to be pre-arranged with the appropriate healthcare provider in the country you're visiting. This is due to the fact that it's not always guaranteed that local healthcare providers will have the capacity to provide this care. The decision on whether treatment is medically necessary is made by the healthcare provider in the country you're visiting. State healthcare isn't always free outside of the UK. You may be required to pay for treatments that would be free on the NHS if a local resident would be expected to pay in the country you're visiting. Before travelling, it's advisable to research the state-provided healthcare services in the country you're visiting and any potential charges you may face. You can check the relevant country guide on for information on how to access treatment in the country you're visiting. However, a GHIC (or EHIC) card does not replace travel and medical insurance or cover services like: Medical repatriation (being flown back to the UK) Treatment in a private medical facility Ski or mountain rescue For this reason, the NHS advises that you also have private travel and medical insurance for the duration of your trip. A UK GHIC can be used when you're visiting: A country in the European Economic Area (EEA) Montenegro Australia Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man St Helena, Tristan and Ascension A UK GHIC can be used in Switzerland if you're one of the following:. A British national A Swiss national An EU citizen A refugee A stateless person A family member of someone who holds one of the above nationalities or statuses Article continues below The UK Government is in talks with various countries to broaden the applicability of the UK GHIC, so it's always advisable to verify coverage prior to your journey. For further details, visit the NHS website here.
Telegraph
an hour ago
- Telegraph
NHS to roll out DIY cervical cancer screening for women at home
The NHS is to roll out DIY cervical cancer screening at home. Women who have consistently missed offers for screening will be offered the chance to 'self-sample' to help prevent cervical cancer. Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary, said it was part of efforts to provide healthcare 'that works around people's lives '. The Department of Health and Social Care said the new approach could potentially save around 5,000 lives a year in England. Officials said the home-testing kits would be offered from January under the upcoming 10-year health plan, which is expected next week. The plan was recommended by the UK National Screening Committee. Mr Streeting said: 'These self-sampling kits represent healthcare that works around people's lives, not the other way around. They put women firmly in control of their own health, ensuring we catch more cancers at their earliest, most treatable stages. 'Our 10-year health plan will fundamentally reform the NHS, shifting focus from treating illness to preventing it before it starts. 'We know the earlier cancer is diagnosed the better the chances are of survival. By making screening more convenient, we're tackling the barriers that keep millions of women from potentially life-saving tests.' The tests, which can be performed at home, look for the human papillomavirus (HPV), the virus which is linked to the majority of cases of cervical cancer. The NHS offers cervical screening tests – previously known as smear tests – to all women aged 25 to 64 every three years. But many women do not take up the offer, with a number citing a lack of time, discomfort or embarrassment. Some five million women are not up to date with routine check-ups, according to data published by the NHS last November. Under the initiative, women will be sent a self-sampling kit in the post which can be returned via pre-paid mail. Those who are found to have the HPV virus will be encouraged to attend an in-person appointment with a clinician. Health minister Karin Smyth said the move was 'a revolutionary shift in how we approach healthcare'. She said many women did not attend cervical cancer screening appointments for understandable reasons – including 'embarrassment, cultural sensitivities, inconvenient services and busy lives'. She wrote in The Telegraph: 'These simple kits test for HPV – the virus responsible for most cervical cancers – and can be used in the privacy of your own home. No awkward appointments, no time off work, no childcare arrangements needed. 'For those who haven't responded to screening invitations, these kits will be offered to you on your NHS app and at the push of a button, mailed to your home.' A trial programme suggested that offering self-sampling kits to 'under-screened' women when they attend their GP practice, and posting kits to women's homes, could boost uptake in England by about 400,000 each year. The YouScreen trial was led by King's College London in partnership with NHS England. NHS England said the new programme 'specifically targets those groups consistently missing vital appointments' including younger women, those from minority ethnic backgrounds, people with disabilities and LGBT+ people. Dr Anita Lim, chief investigator of the YouScreen trial from King's College London, said: 'This is a significant step forward for cervical cancer prevention and brings us closer to the NHS goal of eliminating the disease by 2040. 'The YouScreen trial, which provided self-sampling HPV kits to under-screened women in London, demonstrated that self-sampling could reach people who find it difficult to attend traditional screening – including those from diverse and underserved populations. 'It's hugely positive to see this now reflected in national policy, helping more people get protected from this highly preventable cancer.' Michelle Kane, NHS England's director of screening, said: 'There are a number of reasons that stop some women taking up the offer of screening and we hope the introduction of self-testing will encourage more women to take up this life-saving test in a way that works for them. 'I'd encourage anyone who gets an invite for a cervical screening, either from their local GP practice or the NHS App, to attend and if you have any worrying symptoms, please contact your GP. It could save your life.' Early detection saves lives By Karin Smyth Despite having a family history of skin conditions, I was always too busy to pay attention to the warning signs. 'I'm not a sun worshipper,' I told myself as I rushed between meetings, caring for others and constituency commitments, never making time to get that changing mole checked. It was only by chance that a consultant oncologist spotted a small lump on my face at a parliamentary event a few years ago that led me to a check-up. While that lump turned out to be benign, it led to discovering melanoma on my leg. My experience taught me two vital lessons: early detection saves lives, and our healthcare system must work around people's lives, not the other way around. That's why I'm so passionate about the announcement we're making today. Under our 10 Year Health Plan, women who have not taken up the offer of a cervical screening appointment will be offered a self-sample kit to be mailed to their home. This isn't just another NHS initiative – it's a revolutionary shift in how we approach healthcare. Currently, nearly a third of women miss their cervical screening appointments. That's over five million people potentially putting themselves at risk. The reasons are understandable – embarrassment, cultural sensitivities, inconvenient services and busy lives do come in the way of attending appointments. But cervical cancer doesn't care about your schedule. It claims lives that could be saved through early detection. For those unable to attend appointments, self-sampling can allow women to take control back. These simple kits test for HPV – the virus responsible for most cervical cancers – and can be used in the privacy of your own home. No awkward appointments, no time off work, no childcare arrangements needed. For those who haven't responded to screening invitations, these kits will be offered to you on your NHS App and at the push of a button, mailed to your home. Anyone testing positive will be referred for follow-up assessment, ensuring the same high standards of care as traditional screening. This initiative is just one piece of our broader vision outlined in the 10 Year Health Plan. We're moving from treating sickness to preventing it, from hospital corridors to community spaces. Because true healthcare isn't about waiting until you're ill – it's about keeping you well in the first place. I know first-hand the fear that comes with a cancer diagnosis. My melanoma journey could have been very different had I ignored that changing mole for longer. Many women with cervical cancer face similar stories – symptoms noticed too late, screening appointments repeatedly postponed. When I tell people to check their skin regularly or attend screening appointments, I'm not speaking from a position of privilege or ignorance. I'm speaking as someone who's faced that fear, someone who knows what's at stake. Because when it comes to cancer, early detection isn't just preferable – it's the difference between life and death. And no one should miss that opportunity because the system wasn't designed with their needs in mind.
Daily Mirror
an hour ago
- Daily Mirror
Parents sent urgent vaccine warning amid cancer red alert
Uptake of a vital vaccine is still well below pre-Covid pandemic levels, experts have warned Young people in one area of the UK are at an 'increased risk' of a certain cancer, as health experts warned parents. According to the latest data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), people in parts of the country are more likely to develop cervical cancer. This is due to the fact that coverage of a potentially lifesaving vaccine, the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) jab is not the same across the country. Figures from the UKHSA show that there are 'inequalities' in vaccination uptake in different areas and regions across the country. Uptake of the HPV jab is still below what it was prior to the Covid pandemic, the UKHSA warned. It not only protects against cervical cancer, but other forms of the disease such as anal, penile and head and neck cancer. The vaccine is offered to children aged 12 to 13. Research has shown that receiving the HPV vaccine before age 16 provides significantly stronger immune responses and greater protection against HPV-related cancers. Dr Sharif Ismail, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: 'The HPV vaccine, now just a single dose offered in schools, is one of the most powerful tools we have for cancer prevention. Every vaccination represents a young person with better protection against the devastating impact of HPV-related cancers and we must do more to ensure that no teenage girl or boy, young woman or man is denied that protection no matter where they live. 'Although we have seen some increase in the number of young people being vaccinated, uptake is still well below pre-Covid pandemic levels. Over a quarter of young people, many thousands, are missing out on this potentially life-saving vaccine, which protects not only against cervical cancer but all young adults, men and women, against genital warts and some genital cancers, as well as mouth and throat cancers. 'We're calling on all parents to return their children's HPV vaccination consent forms promptly. This simple action could protect your child from developing cancer in the future.' Worst-affected areas The latest HPV vaccine data, which was taken between 2023 to 2024, shows that Lambeth in south London has the lowest uptake of the jab: HPV coverage for female year 10 students by NHS commissioning region was lowest in London (64.9 per cent) and highest in the South East (82.7 per cent) HPV coverage for male year 10 students by NHS commissioning region was lowest in London (58.9 per cent) and highest in the South East (77.3 per cent) HPV coverage for female year 10 students at local authority level ranged from 38.7 per cent (Lambeth) to 97.6 per cent (Northumberland) HPV coverage for male year 10 students at local authority level ranged from 28.2 per cent (Lambeth) to 92.2 per cent (West Berkshire) Data provided by Cancer Research UK on cervical cancer incidence statistics report that rates in England are 65 per cent higher in the most deprived quintile compared with the least. Dr Amanda Doyle, national director for primary care and community services at NHS England, said: 'The NHS HPV vaccination programme has already helped save thousands of lives and we need to go further to boost uptake of HPV vaccines and cervical screening to help eliminate cervical cancer in England by 2040. 'If we can ensure that almost every Year 10 girl in some areas is protected and extremely unlikely to ever develop cervical cancer, we need to match this in every part of the country. It's vital for boys and young men to be vaccinated too. Rates in boys still lag behind girls and HPV causes thousands of cancers in men as well as things like genital warts. 'I would urge all parents to give their consent for their child to be vaccinated and it's important to remember that those that remain unvaccinated and have left school can still get vital protection by contacting their GP practice to catch up before their 25th birthday. With vaccination being just one dose, it is easier than ever to ensure young people get protection.' Getting the HPV vaccine For those who missed their school HPV vaccinations in year 8 and 9, catch-up options remain available and are highly effective. Anyone who missed their HPV vaccination, now just a single jab, can still receive it for free until their 25th birthday through their GP surgery; this also applies to boys born after September 1, 2006. HPV vaccinations are also offered to boys in school in year 8 and 9, and similarly help protect them against HPV infection and its complications, including genital warts, head and neck cancers (which includes mouth and throat) and genital cancers. But boys also have an important role to play in helping eliminate cervical cancer by being vaccinated and not passing on the HPV virus when they become sexually active. For young adults up to age 25, who missed their school vaccinations, please speak to your GP about catch-up options. It's never too late to get protected. And it's important to stress that even if you've had the HPV vaccine, it's vital you still attend your cervical screening appointments when invited. Both vaccination and screening together give you your best chance of protection against cervical cancer. While the HPV vaccine provides excellent protection, attending cervical screening appointments remains crucial, regardless of vaccination status. Screening can detect abnormal cells before they develop into cancer, allowing for early treatment and prevention.
