Key Highlights:
- Teal Wand is the first FDA-approved at-home test for cervical cancer screening.
- It detects HPV, a key cause of cervical cancer, and is available for women aged 25-65.
- After home collection, the sample is sent to a lab, with results available within a week.
- Teal Wand kits will be available in California starting June 2025.
In a groundbreaking move for women’s health, the FDA has approved Teal Wand, the first-ever at-home test for cervical cancer screening. This test is designed to detect human papillomavirus (HPV), a primary cause of cervical cancer, providing women aged 25-65 with a convenient and private option for monitoring their health. Once the sample is collected at home, it is sent to a lab, and results are made available online within a week. The Teal Wand will be available for purchase in California starting June 2025.
Cervical cancer remains a significant health issue, with approximately 13,360 new cases expected in 2025, according to the American Cancer Society. However, regular screenings can significantly reduce the risk of developing the disease. The traditional method of screening, the Pap smear, typically requires a visit to a healthcare facility. Now, with the approval of Teal Wand, women can perform this test at home, making it more accessible and comfortable.
The approval of Teal Wand followed a study involving over 600 women, which showed that self-collected samples yielded results that matched the accuracy of samples collected by clinicians. This breakthrough is a win for women’s health, offering them a more convenient and less invasive way to manage their cervical cancer risk. Kara Egan, co-founder and CEO of Teal Health, emphasized that this approval isn’t just about innovation—it’s about empowering women with an option that fits into their busy lives.
