BD’s Cervical Cancer Screening Survey Finds Women Skipping OB/GYN Exams

A recent NIH study analyzing cancer mortality from 1975 to 2020 found that “nearly all deaths averted from cervical cancer were by screening and the removal of pre-cancerous growths.” Yet, many women still face barriers to early detection and treatment.

BD, a global leader in medical technology, conducted a survey in November 2024, gathering insights from over 1,100 women in the US about their gynecological health habits. The goal: uncover barriers to regular cervical cancer screenings and identify actionable solutions.

The survey revealed:

• 72% of women delayed their OB/GYN visits, citing discomfort (54%) and scheduling difficulties (49%)
• 62% recognized cervical cancer as preventable with regular screenings
• 50% admitted uncertainty about recommended screening frequency
• 81% expressed interest in less invasive testing methods

According to the WHO, worldwide, one woman dies of cervical cancer every two minutes. The health agency set up a global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health concern by 2030.

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Cervical cancer, caused primarily by persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infections, ranks as the fourth most common cancer in women globally. Yet it is largely preventable with routine screenings and HPV vaccination.

Current guidelines recommend screening every five years for women aged 30 to 65 with normal results, but some confusion and issues of adherence persist.

In response, BD encourages the use of its FDA-approved Onclarity HPV Assay that is designed for self-collection of vaginal samples. The test — which was also implemented to improve cervical cancer screening in underserved communities in a Texas pilot program — minimizes invasive procedures while identifying more high-risk HPV strains than other tests, enabling personalized care and reducing unnecessary follow-ups.

Following the BD survey, the Onclarity HPV Assay was added to the American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology’s (ASCCP’s) updated guidelines. They recognize the test’s ability to identify six cancer-causing HPV strains individually, improving risk stratification and treatment planning.

A nationwide study by Teal Health — whose Teal Wand, an at-home self-collection cervical cancer screening device, is currently under FDA review — revealed that 94% of participants preferred at-home screening over traditional methods. The development and upcoming launch of the Teal Wand are supported by $23 million in funding, including a $10 million seed round.

BD’s survey results echo findings from an earlier CDC study — conducted through cancer registries in the US across 376 cervical cancer survivors — that revealed 60% of individuals had not been screened as recommended prior to their diagnosis, citing lack of awareness, confusion over results and insufficient insurance coverage. Additional challenges included stigma and emotional sensitivity surrounding the disease.

All in all, there is compelling evidence that cervical cancer screening could save lives. Expanding self-collection options, enhancing patient education and addressing systemic barriers could ensure that more women have easy access to life-saving screening.