Researchers at Rice University in the United States have developed a low-cost, point-of-care DNA test that could potentially make cervical cancer screening more accessible in low and middle-income countries.
How is this test different from existing Human papillomavirus infection (HPV) tests? Why is it such a big deal? Read on to find out.
Key features of the test:
The DNA test is a six-step test that requires two pieces of equipment.
The test is capable of detecting HPV16 and HPV18 – two variants of the virus that account for almost 70 percent of cervical cancer.
In the clinical trial, the test delivered results in 45 minutes.
It can be performed by a minimally trained personnel.
Researchers also used disposable cartridges to avoid false positives that often arise from contamination in the workspace.