Danish Health Authority proposes HPV testing for cervical cancer screening changes

A cervical screening typically involves placing a patient in gynecological stirrups while a healthcare professional uses a small brush to gently scrape the surface of the cervix. This procedure is performed on over 420,000 Danish women annually as part of the cervical cancer screening program. The Danish Health Authority is proposing changes to how cell samples from women aged 30 to 59 are analyzed, recommending that all samples be tested using a sensitive method to detect the HPV virus. This approach aims to identify more cases of HPV and cell changes that could develop into cervical cancer.

Berit Andersen, Chair of the National Steering Group for Cervical Cancer Screening, explained that the HPV test is better at detecting serious cell changes as well as less severe changes that often resolve on their own. She noted that because of the test’s sensitivity, women would not need to be screened as frequently—every five years instead of three, if HPV is absent.

Since January 2021, half of all samples from women aged 30-59 have been tested for HPV, while the other half have undergone cytology screening. If HPV is detected, the samples are additionally tested for cell changes. The Health Authority’s recommendation is based on findings that the HPV test identifies more women with cell changes requiring follow-up.

However, there are concerns among medical professionals regarding the risk of overdiagnosis with the HPV test. Some argue that while it can detect early changes, many of these do not lead to cancer, potentially causing unnecessary anxiety and procedures for women.

Organizations, including Cancer Society and gynecological societies, support the transition to HPV testing, emphasizing the need for clear guidelines for women who test positive to avoid unnecessary treatments. The Health Authority is currently considering these recommendations and is expected to decide on the introduction of the new screening method by the end of the year.