Testing for cervical cancer using self-sampling kits in underserved communities

Self-Testing for Cervical Cancer in Priority Populations: the STEP-2 Trial

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-11089431

This study is looking to help more women get screened for cervical cancer by providing easy-to-use self-sampling kits for HPV testing, either at their health clinics or sent directly to their homes, so they can get the care they need more easily.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11089431 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research aims to improve cervical cancer screening rates among patients in Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) by implementing self-sampling kits for HPV testing. The study will adapt and evaluate two different programs to distribute these kits, either at clinics or directly to patients' homes. By involving community input and partnerships with Medicaid, the research seeks to address barriers to screening and ensure that more women receive timely cervical cancer detection. The project will be conducted in two phases, starting with planning and pilot testing, followed by a larger trial across multiple clinics in Oregon and Washington.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women receiving care at Federally Qualified Health Centers who are eligible for cervical cancer screening.

Not a fit: Patients who are not eligible for cervical cancer screening or those who have already been screened recently may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly increase cervical cancer screening rates and early detection among underserved populations.

How similar studies have performed: Similar approaches using self-sampling for HPV testing have shown success in other countries, but this specific implementation in the US is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

SEATTLE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: cancer disparity, cancer health disparity, cancer-related health disparity

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.