HPV self-testing a game-changer for cervical cancer screening

HPV infection in the genitals can cause cancer of the cervix or vagina in women or cancer of the penis in men. [iStockphoto]

According to the World Health Organisation, globally, cervical cancer ranks as the fourth most frequently diagnosed cancer and the fourth leading cause of cancer death in women and yet it is a preventable disease. The WHO has a global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer.

To achieve this, the following targets must be met by 2030 for countries to be on a path to eliminate the disease; 90 per cent of girls should fully vaccinated with the HPV vaccine by the age of 15 years, 70 per cent of women screened by the age of 35 and 90 per cent of women identified with the disease should receive treatment.