New HPV testing guidelines endorse the use of self-swab kits to screen for cervical cancer

The American Cancer Society is endorsing the use of self-swab kits to test for HPV, because they may reduce barriers to cervical cancer screening.

The organization's updated cervical cancer screening guidelines , published Thursday, come after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first at-home test for human papillomavirus . HPV is the top cause of cervical cancer. The guidelines endorse self-swabbing for women at average risk of cervical cancer. MORE: Shingles vaccine may offer an additional benefit — slowing the progress of dementia

The amended guidelines will "help improve compliance with screening and reduce the risk of developing and dying from cervical cancer," said Robert Smith, an American Cancer Society senior vice president and the se