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AI-assisted digital cytology
30 July 2026

AI-assisted digital cytology can support more resilient cervical screening programmes in the UK and other countries by reducing staff time required for slide review and reporting.

Please see Improving laboratory workforce efficiency using AI-assisted digital cytology within an HPV-based cervical screening programme: A model-based evaluation for the NHS Cervical Screening Programmes | BMJ Open to see full article.

Home testing kits for lifesaving checks against cervical cancer
24 June 2026

Government to offer home testing kits as part of the cervical screening programme under the upcoming 10 Year Health Plan.

Please see Home testing kits for lifesaving checks against cervical cancer - GOV.UK to read the full article.

Cervical cancer mortality trends following HPV vaccination in England, 2001 - 2024: an analysis of population-based mortality data
17 June 2026

A high HPV vaccination coverage is associated with a substantial reduction in cervical cancer deaths.

Please see Cervical cancer mortality trends following HPV vaccination in England, 2001–24: an analysis of population-based mortality data - The Lancet for the full article. 

Possible use of urine HPV testing to increase cervical screening uptake
01 December 2025

HPV-tested urine has a lower specificity than HPV-tested cervical samples however urine self-sampling has great potential for those that experience barriers with traditional methods.

Please see Urine human papillomavirus testing for cervical screening in a UK general screening population: a diagnostic test accuracy study | British Journal of General Practice for the full study.