2023-07-03 08:39:57
Title: Cervical Cancer Screening Revolutionized with HPV DNA Self-Sampling in Thailand
Subtitle: Efforts to combat cervical cancer surge as innovative screening method becomes available
Date: [Insert Date]
Cervical cancer, the fifth most prevalent cancer among Thai women, has witnessed a significant rise in daily cases. However, progress in prevention and treatment has been hindered by the reluctance of women to undergo screenings due to embarrassment and the absence of noticeable symptoms. In a bid to combat this silent threat, the introduction of HPV DNA Self-Sampling has emerged as a game-changing solution, providing hope for early detection and treatment.
According to the National Cancer Institute, 80% of cervical cancer cases can be prevented through regular and timely HPV testing. Historically, Pap smear screenings have been the primary method employed for early detection, involving an uncomfortable visit to the doctor’s office where cervical cells are collected and sent for laboratory examination. This procedure has deterred many women from getting screened due to shyness and the absence of abnormal symptoms. As a result, patients often wait until symptoms arise, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment.
The landscape has since changed, with cervical cancer screenings now taking the form of HPV DNA Testing, a method that includes both doctor sample collection and HPV DNA Self-Sampling. The National Health Security Office (NHSO) has implemented this as a benefit for Thai women aged 30-59 years. Women can now conveniently collect specimens at home using the Wallet app and send them back to the service unit. Results are promptly communicated through the app, allowing for immediate follow-up if necessary. Negative results can be repeated every five years, while positive results ascertain the need for urgent medical attention.
Dr. Olarik Musikawong, an Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist from the Bureau of Health Promotion, Department of Health, expressed during an exclusive interview organized by Roche Diagnostics (Thailand) Co., Ltd., that while the number of cervical cancer patients in Thailand is decreasing, there are still 25 new cases diagnosed every day. Prompted by this, efforts such as vaccination against cervical cancer and the 3 A campaign (Awareness, Accessibility, and Affordability) have been implemented to raise awareness and ensure accessibility to screenings.
Cervical cancer is challenging to treat once it progresses, often divided into four stages since contracting the HPV virus. It takes approximately ten years for the infection to develop into cancer, with symptoms such as bleeding and the presence of lumps in the cervix indicating advanced stages. Early detection of HPV through innovations like HPV DNA Self-Sampling is crucial in preventing the virus’s progression to cancer, as it enables timely treatment.
The introduction of HPV DNA Self-Sampling has significantly benefited Thai women aged 30-59 years. In 2020, the NHSO approved HPV DNA testing as part of national health insurance, offering screenings every five years to replace Pap smears or VIA (Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid). However, the inconvenience and hesitance associated with accessing screening services has led to the inclusion of HPV DNA Self-Collection as an additional benefit. Dr. Attaporn Limpanyalert, Deputy Secretary-General of the NHSO, emphasized the significance of early detection, highlighting that 70% of cervical cancer cases are caused by HPV infection, particularly high-risk strains such as types 16 and 18.
To facilitate widespread access, Thai women aged 30-59 can obtain cervical self-examination kits from participating government hospitals. Additionally, the NHSO has piloted the inclusion of 119 pharmacies and nursing clinics in Health Area 7, comprising Kalasin, Khon Kaen, Maha Sarakham, and Roi Et, as distribution points for test kits via the Wallet app.
The “Health Bag” within the Wallet app offers 22 health promotion programs for women’s disease prevention, specifically catering to cervical cancer screening benefits. The ultimate goal, by 2023, is to reach 1.2 million women, with 700,000 cases (56.8% of the target) already having availed themselves of this potentially life-saving opportunity. Early detection plays a critical role in reducing the burden of cervical cancer.
Pichetpong Srisuwankul, Managing Director of Roche Diagnostics (Thailand) Company Limited, acknowledged the collaborative efforts to combat cervical cancer in Thailand, reiterating the importance of innovation, including the use of cutting-edge medical laboratory equipment and widespread awareness campaigns.
The rise of HPV DNA Self-Sampling offers renewed hope in the fight against cervical cancer. This convenient and effective screening method holds the potential to save numerous lives by ensuring early detection and timely treatment. With increased accessibility and awareness, the goal of reducing the impact of cervical cancer on Thai women is well within reach.]
#HPV #DNA #SelfSampling #screen #cervical #cancer #embarrassed #doctor