The World Health Organization (WHO) has included a fourth test for human papillomavirus (HPV) in its list of prequalified tests. This addition highlights the importance of HPV testing as a crucial component of cervical cancer screening.

The “Roche Molecular Systems Inc.'s cobas HPV assay's” inclusion expands the range of high-performance tests available to countries, supporting efforts to improve screening coverage and quality.  

WHO's strategic targets to eliminate cervical cancer include vaccination,  screening, and treatment of pre-cancer & invasive cancer.  

HPV tests predict the risk better than a pap smear and visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA). Provide opportunities for self-sampling, reducing testing barriers. 

Incorporating HPV testing into existing laboratory systems aids public health programs in achieving screening targets.