Self-HPV Screening Could Expand Early Detection of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer remains a major health concern for Indonesian women, with many only realizing they have the disease in its later stages. Low participation in routine screenings is often attributed to fear, discomfort, and social stigma surrounding reproductive health examinations.

To address these barriers, a self-collection Human Papillomavirus (HPV) screening method has been introduced. This approach allows women to collect their own samples using a special swab, eliminating the need for direct examination by a healthcare professional. PT Prodia Widyahusada Tbk, in collaboration with PT Roche Indonesia Diagnostics Division, launched the "My HPV-Test" service to bolster efforts in eliminating cervical cancer in Indonesia by 2030.

Liana Kuswandi, President Director of PT Prodia Widyahusada Tbk, expressed hope that the self-screening method will motivate women to conduct reproductive health checks more regularly. "We want the screening experience to be a routine and empowering part of a healthy lifestyle," Kuswandi stated. "Together with Roche Indonesia, we are providing services that give Indonesian women direct access to manage their health." The service is integrated with the U by Prodia app for ordering test kits and accessing results.

Lee Poh Seng, Director of Diagnostics Division at PT Roche Indonesia, highlighted that the self-collection method is expected to help overcome women's psychological hesitations about cervical cancer screening. Roche previously conducted a pilot study in Surabaya with the Ministry of Health, Jhpiego, and Bio Farma. The study found that most participants successfully completed the self-examination with high sample accuracy. "The self-collection innovation offers a more comfortable examination option, preventing women from delaying screening," Lee said.