Over 80% of NZ Women Choose Self-Test for Cervical Screening in First Year

Minister of Health Dr. Shane Reti and Associate Minister Casey Costello, responsible for Women’s Health, have both praised the strong uptake of the self-test.

More than 80% of women in New Zealand have opted for a world-leading self-test for cervical screening since it became available last year, marking a major success in the country’s health initiative.

Minister of Health Dr. Shane Reti and Associate Minister Casey Costello, responsible for Women’s Health, have both praised the strong uptake of the self-test. “The self-test is a quick, simple swab that women can do themselves if they choose,” said Dr. Reti. “It detects HPV, which is responsible for over 95% of cervical cancers. Since the introduction of the self-test in September 2023, more than 380,000 women have undergone screening, with 80.8% opting for the self-test.”

Dr. Reti highlighted the importance of the test, especially during Cervical Screening Awareness Month, and noted that it has received wide support across New Zealand’s health system.

Associate Minister Casey Costello emphasized that the simplicity of the test has broadened its appeal. "The new option has reached groups of women who may have never been screened before, and it’s motivating those who haven’t been screened in a long time to participate,” Costello said.

She encouraged more women to get tested, especially those who are due or overdue for their cervical screening. The test has been particularly successful among previously un- or under-screened women, with 86 to 87% choosing the self-test option.

“We’ve heard from women across the country that the self-test is quick and easy, leaving them feeling satisfied with the process,” Costello said. “One year into the programme, this positive response and the early data are very encouraging.”