From July 2023, the primary test for cervical screening will change to a human papillomavirus (HPV) test, with the option of self-testing. The current cytology-based test has served New Zealand well for over 20 years and played a huge role in reducing cervical cancer mortality. Why is HPV testing going to a be a better primary screening test? How will it will find more pre-cancers and prevent more cases of cervical cancer? Will the self-testing option lead to greater participation in the screening pathway? What consideration has been given to equity and Te Tiriti obligations? And how is the transition being planned and organised?

Find out how and why we are transitioning to HPV Primary Screening in July 2023 by reading the full overview here.

PHANZ thanks the HPV cervical screening team for sharing their knowledge and insight on this issue. If you have any questions from the article you can contact the HPV Primary Screening Project, National Cervical Screening Programme via email HPVSCreen@health.govt.nz