American Cancer Society Recommends Self-Swab HPV Test for Cervical Cancer Screening

Updated American Cancer Society guidelines now endorse self-administered HPV testing as part of cervical cancer screening, a shift expected to expand access and improve adherence among women who avoid speculum exams. FDA-approved self-swab tests can be completed in clinics or at home and detect the high-risk HPV strains responsible for all cervical cancers.

Screening remains critical, as more than 20% of U.S. women are not up to date despite declining cancer rates vaccination and improved screening. Both the ACS and USPSTF continue to recommend primary HPV testing, though they differ on starting age. Clarifying when screening can safely stop highlights need for participation reduce inequities and prevent disease. Read more from NBC here.