Study summary
Self-collected anal swabs worked as well as clinician swabs for HPV testing
What was tested
A pooled look at studies comparing anal swabs people take themselves with swabs taken by a clinician, for anal cancer screening.
What they found
- Self-collected swabs were as adequate as clinician swabs for HPV testing.
- They were about 10% less adequate for cell (cytology) testing.
What it means
Could make screening easier and more private for people at high risk.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team.
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