Could a simple HPV test every 5 years replace frequent pap smears?

NCT ID NCT02328872

Ongoing Prevention Sponsor: VCS Foundation Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study compares two ways to screen for cervical cancer: a Pap smear every 2.5 years versus an HPV test every 5 years. Over 76,000 women aged 25-69 in Australia are taking part, including those who received the HPV vaccine and those who did not. The goal is to see if the less frequent HPV test is just as good at catching early signs of cancer.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: HPV test (molecular test for human papillomavirus)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could show that HPV testing every 5 years is as good as or better than Pap smears every 2.5 years for preventing cervical cancer, potentially changing screening guidelines worldwide.
What could go wrong: This is a large, well-designed trial, but results depend on long-term follow-up and real-world compliance. The HPV test may detect more harmless infections, leading to unnecessary procedures.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

cervical carcinoma cervical intraepithelial neoplasia dysplasia of cervix Uterine Cervical Neoplasms

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

CANCER OF THE CERVIX CERVICAL INTRAEPITHELIAL NEOPLASIA

Contacts and locations

Locations

VCS Foundation

Carlton, Victoria, 3053, Australia

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