Self- Sampling in Cervical Cancer Routine Screening

Self-Sampling In Cervical Cancer Routine Screening (FALCON)

SELF-SAMPLING IN CERVICAL CANCER ROUTINE SCREENING (FALCON) -Study implements a self-sampling option for the non-attendees of the national cervical cancer screening program in the Wellbeing Services County of Pirkanmaa. HPV primary testing is currently preferred method for cervical cancer screening. The HPV-DNA self-sampling has been shown to have screening performance equal to that of provider-obtained samples. In 2024, those turning 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, or 65 had the opportunity to participate in the FALCON study if they do not respond to the first invitation to cervical cancer screening. From March 2025 also women living in Kanta-Häme, Central Finland, Päijät-Häme, and Ostrobothnia can take part to the study.

The main objective of the FALCON study is to increase the current coverage of the cervical cancer screening program in the Pirkanmaa, Kanta-Häme, Central Finland, Päijät-Häme, and Ostrobothnia region and assess how acceptable self-sampling is for women.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Women that do not respond to the first national cervical cancer screening invitation in 2024 and 2025 and to whom the reminder letter is sent to.
• Birth cohorts of women who will turn in screening year: 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60 or 65 years old.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Women who do not belong to the screening year 2024 or 2025 invitation birth cohorts.