Canada-Based Switch Health Launches At-Home HPV Test

An HPV test detects the virus linked to precancerous cells, crucial for sexually active individuals, especially those over the age of 25.

Canada-based Switch Health has unveiled the country's first-of-its-kind at-home HPV (human papillomavirus) testing kit. This kit allows for convenient and regular HPV testing from the privacy of one's own home.

An HPV test detects the virus linked to precancerous cells, crucial for sexually active individuals, especially those over the age of 25.

With this initiative, Switch Health aims to empower individuals to conduct necessary health tests from their homes. Moreover, with this kit people can take control of their health and proactively conduct testing when necessary.  

Cervical cancer is one of the leading cancers affecting women in Canada. According to a survey conducted in partnership with Switch Health and Angus Reid Group, 84% of adult Canadian women consider the risk of cervical cancer their main reason for getting regular Pap tests. Additionally, 92% of women are open to the idea of at-home testing.

In 2020, it was estimated that 1,300 Canadians would receive a cervical cancer diagnosis, and 400 would lose their lives to the disease. Currently, the recommended practice is to undergo a Pap test every three years for sexually active individuals.

Founded in 2022, Switch Health aims to create equitable and affordable access to healthcare by focusing on harnessing the power of technology to power healthcare.

Talking about health kits, recently HiMedia received Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) approval to commercialise the production of its influenza PCR detection kit (MBPCR243). This kit allows doctors and public health laboratories to diagnose influenza rapidly in a single tube.

In another instance, a Bengaluru-based startup NeoDx Biotech Labs introduced a Real-Time PCR Diagnostic kit for early detection of ankylosing spondylitis and related inflammatory disorders. This kit includes all the necessary reagents and controls to conduct these crucial tests effectively.