Authors' objectives: CervicalCheck – Irelands National Cervical Screening programme currently uses liquid-based cytology as the primary screening test for the detection of precancerous cervical abnormalities and early stage cervical cancer. The purpose of the HTA is to inform decisions around changing to HPV testing as the primary screening test. Strategies for triage were assessed along with alternative screening intervals and age-bands. The HTA examined the clinical effectiveness, safety, cost-effectiveness and budget impact of different screening strategies, as well as the organisational, societal and ethical implications of any changes to the screening programme.

Authors' methods: This research was carried out in accordance with HIQA’s guidelines for the conduct of health technology assessments. The Terms of Reference of the HTA were agreed between HIQA and the National Screening Service. An Expert Advisory Group was convened, with representation from health policy decision-makers, clinicians, patient advocates, professional bodies and experts in health services research and economic evaluation. An evaluation team was appointed comprising HIQA staff. Two systematic reviews of the clinical literature were carried out. The first looked at the comparison of HPV testing with cytology testing as the primary screening method for cervical cancer. The second looked at triage options for HPV based primary screening, An economic evaluation was performed to estimate the cost-effectiveness and budget impact of different screening strategies for women vaccinated against HPV 16 and HPV 18 and those not vaccinated. An analysis of the organisational, social and ethical implications of changes to the cervical screening services was carried out to identify broader considerations that may influence decision-making. The complete draft report was reviewed by the Expert Advisory Group before being submitted the National Screening Service and the Minister for Health as advice.

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: https://www.hiqa.ie/reports-and-publications/health-technology-assessment/hta-hpv-testing-cervical-cancer-screening

Year Published: 2017

URL for published report: https://www.hiqa.ie/sites/default/files/2017-05/HPV%20HTA%20technical%20report-%2026052017_updated.pdf

Requestor: National Screening Service

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Full HTA

Country: Ireland

Organisation Name: Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA)

Contact Address: Health Information and Quality Authority, George's Court, George's Lane,Smithfield, Dublin 7. PH : + 353 (01) 814 7464

Contact Name: info@hiqa.ie

Contact Email: info@hiqa.ie