Mailed self-collection HPV tests more than double cervical cancer screening rates, study shows

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center conducted a groundbreaking study that revealed the significant impact of mail-in self-collection tests for human papillomavirus (HPV) on increasing cervical cancer screening participation among never- and under-screened women in the United States. The study, known as PRESTIS, was published in JAMA Internal Medicine and showcased a remarkable increase in screening rates among women who received self-collection tests and a telephone reminder compared to those who only received a telephone reminder.

Lead author Jane Montealegre, Ph.D., emphasized the importance of addressing the disparities in cervical cancer screening, especially among uninsured, rural, and marginalized communities. The results of the study indicated that self-collection testing could be a key solution to improving access to screening and ultimately reducing the burden of cervical cancer in the U.S.

The FDA’s approval of the first at-home screening test for cervical cancer in May 2025 marked a significant milestone in the fight against this disease, which affects thousands of women each year. Despite advancements in HPV vaccination and in-office screening, disparities in outcomes persist, particularly for women of color and those in low-income and rural areas.

The PRESTIS study enrolled nearly 2,500 women aged 30-65 from the Houston area, with a focus on ethnic/racial minority populations and individuals covered by publicly funded financial assistance programs. The participants were divided into three groups based on different screening interventions, including clinic-based screening, self-collection tests with a telephone reminder, and self-collection tests with a telephone reminder and patient navigation.

The study revealed that over 80% of women in the self-collection groups returned their kits, demonstrating a preference for this approach within the patient population. The researchers highlighted the importance of integrating self-collection HPV tests into various primary care settings to improve screening uptake and combat cervical cancer effectively.

While the study faced limitations due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other factors, the findings underscored the potential of self-collection tests in increasing screening participation and reducing barriers to healthcare access. The next steps for researchers involve exploring the integration of these tests in different healthcare settings and addressing follow-up procedures for patients who test positive for HPV.

Overall, the study sheds light on the transformative impact of mail-in self-collection tests on cervical cancer screening rates and emphasizes the importance of expanding access to evidence-based screening methods. By leveraging innovative approaches like self-collection testing, healthcare providers can make significant strides in preventing and treating cervical cancer effectively.