However, University of Otago research shows there is a lack of knowledge about the new cervical screening process.
The National Cervical Screening Programme changed in September 2023, with the option to self-test introduced through primary care. Women have the option to choose a self-test with a vaginal swab, or have a health professional undertake a cervical HPV test (similar to a smear test).
Lead author and primary healthcare researcher Dr Sally Rose, of Wellington, said an online survey found most women (81.8%) chose to be screened using the self-test, and the majority found it "highly acceptable".
But gaps were identified in participants’ knowledge and understanding about the new test, how it differed from the old screening method and what the results meant.
While most felt well informed during their screening experience, about 20% identified something they were unsure about or thought was not well explained.
"Our survey findings support suggestions made by HPV screen-takers that ongoing health promotion and educational activities are needed to accompany the shift to the HPV primary screening pathway.
"Effective communication with the screen-taker, clear information about the new test and the meaning of results were viewed as important for a good screening experience."
If HPV was detected, then depending on the result, women could go on to have a clinician-led cervical cytology test (formerly known as a smear test) or be referred to a specialist for further testing.
She said more than 920 women participated in the study’s follow-up survey, and 92% had chosen a self-test.
Of those, 10% returned an HPV-detected result.
Study co-author and obstetrics and gynaecology researcher Associate Prof Peter Sykes, of Christchurch, said cervical cancer was one of the most preventable cancers
"because we know what causes it, and it takes a long time to develop with a pre-cancerous phase that can be treated. By taking part in screening, a simple test can detect whether a person has certain ‘high-risk’ types of the human papilloma virus that might go on to cause pre-cancerous cell changes for a small proportion of those infected".
"It is important to know that even if you get an HPV-detected result, this does not mean you have cancer, but it is an opportunity for further checks, monitoring or treatment to prevent cancer."
Historically, Māori and Pacific women and those living in higher socioeconomic deprivation had been under-served by the National Screening Programme, so it was hoped the new process would improve screening coverage in those populations.
Prof Sykes said the uptake of new self-testing had been high in New Zealand.
"We are leading the way internationally, making this research of particular importance ... Most people who get cervical cancer have not been adequately reached by the cervical screening programme and have not had regular cervical screening tests, so research regarding the acceptability and conduct of screening that can inform policy and increase uptake is crucial."
