Effectiveness of Human Papillomavirus Self-Collection for Cervical Cancer Screening in Community Outreach Programs

On May 14, 2024, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved self-collected vaginal samples for human papillomavirus (HPV) testing, expanding cervical cancer screening access.

To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of HPV self-collection through community outreach programs targeting underscreened populations in Oregon.

From October 2024 to June 2025, women aged 25 to 65 years were recruited through local organizations. Following instruction by pathologists, participants completed self-collection by using Copan swabs, which were transferred to ThinPrep media for high-risk HPV testing using the Cobas 8800 system. Postcollection surveys assessed user experience.

Among 156 participants (mean age, 47.1 years), 87 (55.8%) identified as Hispanic and 69 (44.2%) as non-Hispanic. Racial groups included Hispanic White (87; 55.8%), Asian (33; 21.1%), Black (16; 10.3%), non-Hispanic White (14; 9.0%), Pacific Islander (2; 1.3%), and nondisclosed (4; 2.5%). All tests were valid; 10 participants (6.4%) were HPV-positive, including 1 with HPV-18 and 9 with non-16/18 types. Follow-up cytology showed 1 case of atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance and 2 negative results; the remainder are pending follow-up. Of 129 survey respondents, 8 (6.2%) had received the HPV vaccine. Overall, 117 (90.7%) found the self-collection kit easy to use, 114 (88.4%) would recommend it, and 91 (70.6%) were likely to choose self-collection over clinician-collected samples for future testing. Common feedback included convenience, comfort, and privacy.

HPV self-collection is a practical, user-friendly, and accessible screening option. Pathologist-led outreach may help close screening gaps. This study represents the first academic center-led implementation of FDA-approved self-collection in US community settings.