Population Screening for cervical cancer started in June 2013. Too few women are still having a cervical smear taken by a doctor. To keep motivating women who have stopped having their smears taken in recent years to get tested, Antwerp University has set up the ScreenUrSelf trial. Are they prepared to take a sample at home themselves? That is what the ScreenUrSelf trial investigates.
Thirty-two thousand Flemish women aged 31 to 64 who have not had a smear test taken for at least the past six years will be selected for the self-sampling.
Sixteen thousand women will receive a letter allowing them to request a free self-sampling kit. And sixteen thousand other women will receive a packet that immediately includes a free self-sampling kit. Two types of self-sampling kits are used. One to collect a urine sample. And one to collect a vaginal sample.
The letters and self-sampling packages will be sent out in spring 2023.
You can only take part in the ScreenUrSelf trial if you are selected.
Whether you can use a urine or a vaginal self-recovery kit is determined completely at random. You cannot switch groups.
Why take part?
By examining the self-sample for traces of HPV, we will be able to find people with a higher risk of developing cervical cancer early. Before you notice anything yourself. We can also detect cervical cancer precursors through the test. You do not yet have cancer then, and simple treatment is often enough to prevent you from getting cancer.
The HPV test on your self-sample is new. And just as good as the smear test.
Free?
Receiving self-sampling kit and sending your sample to the lab is free. The analysis of your sample at the lab is also free.
If the lab finds traces of the HPV virus in your sample, we recommend that you undergo further tests. For this, make an appointment with your GP or gynaecologist. Pick a day when you don't have your period. Your GP or gynaecologist will then take a smear for further investigation.
Has it been more than three years since you had a smear test? If so, you will get a full refund of the cost of the smear test. You will then only pay the co-payment for the appointment with your GP or gynaecologist. Any questions? Contact your health insurer.
Is further testing needed after the smear test? If so, your health insurer will cover some of the cost.