Pilot study will assess whether HPV test should replace smears to screen for cervical cancer

A pilot scheme is to be set up in the United Kingdom to assess the value of using human papillomavirus (HPV) testing as the primary screening test for cervical cancer rather than the currently used cytology or smear test.

The pilot scheme will be developed by the NHS cervical screening programme after a recommendation by the UK National Screening Committee. The pilot aims to establish whether using HPV testing as the primary screen for cervical disease results in better outcomes for women while minimising overtreatment and anxiety. More detail about the configuration, timing, and length of the scheme will be decided at future meetings of the screening committee.

The NHS cervical …