Starting January 29, 2024, cervix screening in BC will start to transition from solely cytology (Pap test) to include human papillomavirus (HPV) testing as a primary screening method.
Individuals aged 25 to 69 who are due and eligible for cervix screening can opt to collect their own sample vaginally with the cervix self-screening kit, complete provider-collected cervical sample for HPV testing, or continue to access Pap tests. Provider-collected samples (Pap test) will be triaged for either cytology or HPV testing based on patient’s age.
Cervix self-screening uses an effective and reliable test that detects the high-risk HPV types associated with the development of cervical cancer. It is a low-barrier option for cervix screening as a medical appointment or primary care provider is not required. However, it can also be offered in primary care settings.
For more information, please see memo.