Test kit 'good enough' for those who can't see GP

The DIY kits test for human papillomavirus, which causes most cervical cancers

A new home cervical cancer test kit is not the "gold standard" - but is a "good enough" alternative for those who cannot make it into a GP Surgery, a doctor has said.

From next January, NHS England will be offering the DIY kits to women who are not up to date with their smear test - which is estimated to be more than five million.

In Bristol, 67.5% of women currently take up the offer of cervical cancer screening from their doctor, with around 73% doing so across the south-west of England.

GP, Dr Susie Davies, said having the test done in person would have a "higher pick-up rate" of cell changes, but the home kit was "obviously far, far better - than to not have anything at all".

Women across England between the ages of 25 and 64 are offered a smear test every few years.

But just 68.8% of women across the country currently get tested - well below the NHS England target of 80%.

Dr Davies added that - although having a smear test can be a little uncomfortable, inconvenient or embarrassing - it is "so important that this is done".

"Cervical cancer kills millions of women every year. If you don't pick it up early, you might need radical surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and sometimes it can kill women, so early detection is absolutely crucial," the GP said.

She stressed that people should still try and make in-person smear tests if they could, but the at-home kit could help those who are unable to do so.

"I think it's a fantastic way to break down some of the barriers to having a smear test - [and] a good enough test for those who can't make it into the surgery," she added.

The DIY kits contain a long cotton-wool bud to swab the lining of the vagina. They test for human papillomavirus, which causes most cervical cancers.

The kits are sent out "in discreet packaging" and the return postage is pre-paid.