Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer — yet thousands of women are still diagnosed each year. Barriers like access to care, transportation challenges, cultural or religious beliefs, personal discomfort, and even stigma around HPV continue to prevent many from getting screened.
Now, there’s a new option designed to change that.
Sonora Quest Laboratories has expanded its cervical cancer screening services by offering an FDA-approved HPV self-collection test through My Lab ReQuest™. The new screening option is available at all Sonora Quest Patient Service Centers across Arizona, giving individuals a safe, private alternative to a traditional pelvic exam.
Removing Barriers to Screening
The HPV self-collection test is designed for individuals who decline or are unable to have a pelvic exam performed by a healthcare provider. For some, this may be due to religious or cultural beliefs. For others, it may stem from medical conditions, physical disabilities, trauma history, or personal preference.
Dr. Stacy White, Sonora Quest scientific medical director of advanced diagnostics, explains the motivation behind the expansion:
“Our goal is to increase cervical cancer screening rates by removing barriers like clinic access, transportation and socioeconomic challenges, or personal concerns about the intimacy of an exam. The test determines if someone has high-risk HPV that causes nearly all cervical cancer. It is FDA-approved as a safe and effective screening option.”
By eliminating the need for a provider’s order and offering a private self-collection process, Sonora Quest is working to close gaps in preventive care and encourage more individuals to follow recommended screening guidelines.
How the Self-Collection Test Works
The process is simple and designed with privacy in mind.
Patients can order the HPV self-collection test through My Lab ReQuest™ and visit any Sonora Quest Patient Service Center — with more than 70 locations statewide.
After reviewing step-by-step instructions, the patient privately collects their own vaginal sample using a swab. Once completed, the sample is returned to Patient Service Center staff for processing. Results are typically available within three to four days through the secure Sonora Quest patient portal.
The test screens for high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV), which research shows cause nearly all cervical cancers.
Why Screening Still Matters
The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 13,000 women in the United States will be diagnosed with cervical cancer this year, and approximately 4,000 will die from the disease.
While cervical cancer rates have decreased over time due to screening and vaccination efforts, preventable cases still occur — often because individuals delay or avoid screening.
Regular screening allows cervical cancer to be detected early, when treatment is most effective. The American Cancer Society recommends:
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Beginning screening at age 25
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Continuing regular screening through age 65
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For average-risk individuals using HPV testing, screening every three years
Long-lasting infection with certain high-risk HPV types is the primary cause of cervical cancer. Identifying these infections early allows patients and providers to monitor and intervene before cancer develops.
Empowering Patients with Choice
The addition of HPV self-collection represents a meaningful shift toward patient-centered care. By offering choice and privacy, Sonora Quest hopes more individuals will feel empowered to prioritize their health.
Dr. White adds, “We hope the ability to offer self-collection, without the requirement of a doctor’s order, encourages more people to begin screening and to follow recommended screening guidelines. Ultimately, this will help close the cancer screening gaps.”
For many, this option may be the difference between postponing screening and taking action.
Take the Next Step
If you have delayed cervical cancer screening due to discomfort, scheduling challenges, or personal concerns, this new option may provide a solution.
To learn more about HPV self-collection or to order your own test, visit:
www.sonoraquest.com/patients/my-lab-request
With more than 70 Patient Service Centers across Arizona, screening is now more accessible — and more private — than ever before.
Because preventive care should meet you where you are.