The human papillomavirus (HPV) are very common viruses that are transmitted mainly through sex. Up to 80% of sexually active women are infected with HPV. But most often, papillomaviruses are eliminated naturally by the body before they can even cause disease. In 10% of cases, they persist and evolve and are the cause of various diseases, including cancer of the cervix, anal cancer or genital warts.
Normally detected by smear during a gynecological consultation, they could be diagnosed by a simple urine test.
Researchers at the University of Manchester performed a meta-analysis of 14 studies that compared the effectiveness of existing urine tests and smears. British researchers found quite similar results, although the smear seemed a little better.
The reliability of the urine test is 73% for a positive result and 98% for a negative result.
“The detection of HPV in urine is a non-invasive, easily accessible and acceptable method for women,” explain the authors. “This type of test can improve the screening of women reluctant to take smears.”
Indeed, the Cervical cancer affects 3,000 new women in France each year and kills more than 1,000, according to figures from the High Authority for Health. Detected in time, this disease could do less damage. Despite the recommendation of a smear every three years for women aged 25 to 65, nearly 40% of women do not perform any control in France, according to the National Cancer Institute (Inca). To protect against HPV, there are two vaccines, Gardasil and Cervarix. In France, the High Council of Public Health estimated that the vaccine against the papillomavirus should be offered in schools from the age of 9 years, that is to say two years before the current date of the first vaccine.
“These results should be interpreted with caution due to variations between studies and the lack of” a standardized method for detecting HPV in urine, “conclude the study authors.
And you, have you vaccinated your daughter against the papillomavirus? Talk about it on the forum.
