The FDA has approved the first at-home test for cervical cancer, developed by Teal Health, which aims to increase screening accessibility for women who find traditional pelvic exams uncomfortable or painful. Dr. Emeline Aviki, a gynecologic oncologist, highlighted that some women skip screenings due to the nature of the in-office procedure. While cervical cancer is highly preventable through screenings and HPV vaccinations, screening rates have declined since the mid-2000s; a 2022 study showed that 23% of women were behind on their screenings in 2019, up from 14% in 2005.
The Teal Wand, the at-home test, detects HPV via a less invasive vaginal swab compared to the traditional Pap smear. HPV is a sexually transmitted infection and the leading cause of cervical cancer. Although there is no treatment for HPV, most cases resolve naturally, while certain strains can lead to cervical cancer.
This new home-based test allows women to collect samples through a telehealth consultation. Similar to other HPV tests that require in-office visits, the Teal Wand represents a significant shift toward increasing access, especially for women in rural areas who are at a higher risk of cervical cancer due to reduced healthcare access. While Teal Health plans for the test to be insurance-covered due to recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, details on cost and follow-up procedures remain uncertain. Experts stress the importance of regular gynecological visits that extend beyond cervical cancer screening.
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