Precision screening with self-collected samples to reduce cervical cancer disparities among Latinas
Official title: Precision screening in self-collected samples to reduce cervical cancer disparities among Latinas
Funded at Lifegene-Biomarks, INC. · NIH-11238991 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new system will test self- collected vaginal samples to improve cervical cancer screening for Latinas and help reduce cancer disparities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Lifegene-Biomarks, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Juan, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $366,433 |
| NIH project number | 5R42MD018231-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11238991 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are Latina women who are eligible for cervical cancer screening and may benefit from self- collection approaches.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who cannot perform self- collection or have contraindications to screening may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project looks at making cervical cancer screening easier and more accurate for Latina women by using self-collected samples and smart screening algorithms. It combines simple collection with advanced analysis to identify who needs follow-up care sooner. The aim is to reduce delays and barriers that contribute to higher cancer rates in this population. If successful, the approach could be adopted in clinics serving diverse communities to improve early detection.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to earlier detection and lower cervical cancer deaths among Latinas.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work shows self- collection and alternative screening methods can increase participation and detection in underserved groups, but results vary by population.
Where this research is happening
-
Lifegene-Biomarks, INC.
San Juan, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guerrero-Preston, Rafael — Lifegene-Biomarks, INC.
- Study coordinator: Guerrero-Preston, Rafael
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.