Self-sampling in biomolecular tests beyond the prevention of cervical cancer.

Abstract

An article entitled: “HPV-DNA test access based on self-collection of vaginal samples from women living with HIV/AIDS: pilot implementation in Brazil (1) was recently published in the Brazilian Journal of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (BJSTD). The authors describe the acceptability and applicability of self-collection of vaginal samples for HPV DNA testing among women carrying human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in Brazil. The study demonstrated more than 90% acceptability, and most participants preferred self-collection over collection by healthcare professionals. Such data are essential since this is a population that requires easily accessible screening for differentiated cervical cancer since immunosuppression is associated with a greater risk of persistent HPV infection and the development of cancer of the cervix (2).