AIIMS-ICMR Trial to Evaluate Indigenous HPV Tests for Cervical Cancer Detection

AIIMS-Delhi and ICMR have begun a multi-center trial to assess three Indian human papillomavirus tests for cervical cancer detection, aiming to meet international standards and integrate them into the National Cancer Screening Programme.

In a significant step towards improving cervical cancer screening in India, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS)-Delhi and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) have embarked on a multi-centre trial to evaluate three indigenous human papillomavirus (HPV) tests for detecting cervical cancer. The primary objective of this trial is to ensure that these tests meet international quality standards and can be integrated into the National Cancer Screening Programme.

Developing Accurate and Affordable Tests

Dr Neerja Bhatla, Head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at AIIMS, highlighted the importance of developing accurate and affordable HPV tests. She emphasized that the currently available indigenous tests have not been validated according to international standards, leading to potential inaccuracies and false positives. To address this issue, the trial aims to establish reliable and cost-effective tests that can be seamlessly integrated into the national screening program.

Collaboration with WHO's IARC

To ensure the validity and reliability of the HPV tests, the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) has collaborated with the World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). This collaboration will provide access to approximately 12,000 samples for testing, ensuring a robust evaluation process.

Multi-Centre Trial

The trial will be conducted at three separate laboratories: AIIMS, the National Institute of Cancer Prevention Research in Noida, and the National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health in Mumbai. This multi-centre approach will enable a comprehensive assessment of the HPV tests' performance and accuracy.

Recommendations for Cervical Cancer Screening

In light of the importance of early detection, doctors recommend that women over the age of 30 undergo periodic screening for cervical cancer through HPV, Pap, or VIA tests. Additionally, young girls should receive the HPV vaccine, preferably before the age of 15, to provide proactive protection against the virus.

The multi-centre trial initiated by AIIMS-Delhi and ICMR represents a significant step forward in the fight against cervical cancer in India. By evaluating indigenous HPV tests and ensuring their compliance with international standards, the trial aims to enhance the accuracy and affordability of cervical cancer screening. This initiative aligns with the broader goal of improving women's health and reducing the burden of cervical cancer in the country.