On Friday, the FDA approved Teal Health’s at-home cervical cancer screening test, designed to offer a less invasive alternative to traditional pelvic exams that many women find uncomfortable. Dr. Emeline Aviki from NYU Langone Health noted that this innovative test could help address a significant issue: declining screening rates. Since the mid-2000s, the percentage of women behind on cervical cancer screenings has increased from 14% to 23%. The American Cancer Society reported that up to half of women diagnosed with cervical cancer may not be up to date with screenings. Cervical cancer is preventable largely due to screenings and the HPV vaccine, yet approximately 13,360 diagnoses and 4,320 deaths are expected this year.
The newly introduced Teal Wand utilizes a vaginal swab to detect HPV, the primary cause of cervical cancer, making it less invasive than a pap smear. This at-home test can help increase access to screenings, particularly for women in rural areas who face higher risks of cervical cancer due to reduced healthcare access.
Patients can order the test kit after a telehealth appointment and collect samples at home, which are then mailed to a lab for analysis. If results are positive, Teal Health’s providers will assist in arranging further care. However, uncertainties remain about the test’s cost and the likelihood of patients following up for additional testing.
Teal Health’s CEO indicated potential insurance coverage, pending clarity from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Despite this advancement, experts like Dr. Jessica Kiley stress the importance of regular gynecological visits, which cover a broader spectrum of women’s health issues.
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