Cervical screening: WHO backs HPV self-sampling

According to the article:

• HPV self-sampling can increase participation in screening, particularly among women who face barriers to attending a clinic;
• with validated tests, sensitivity for high-risk HPV is comparable to a sample taken by a health professional;
• offering self-sampling is linked to markedly higher participation among under-screened and never-screened women;
• it should be part of organised programmes, with a clear pathway for follow-up tests, diagnosis and treatment.

This recommendation is aimed first at health programmes: it does not mean self-sampling is available everywhere or suits every situation. Above all it reminds us that cervical screening saves lives and that making access easier is a priority.

For a patient the essentials stay the same: be screened regularly, according to age and history, and consult without delay for abnormal bleeding. The detail of screening is explained on the Cervical screening page.

The report notes that more work is needed on delivery models, long-term outcomes and cost-effectiveness in different settings. How it applies in practice in Morocco is a matter for the health authorities and the national programme.