First at-home HPV test approved by FDA, could replace Pap smear

First at-home HPV test approved by FDA, could replace Pap smear

Cervical cancer screening test allows women to self-collect and mail in samples

The Food and Drug Administration has approved the first at-home screening test for cervical cancer, the product’s maker announced on Friday. (iStock)

"Cervical cancer is largely preventable, yet screening rates in the U.S. continue to lag, and the FDA approval of this at-home Teal Wand self-collection device is a critical step forward," a doctor said. (iStock)

Approximately 11,500 new cervical cancer diagnoses are made in the U.S. each year, and the disease causes 4,000 annual deaths. (iStock)