CC Diagnostics is developing a new way to detect early signs of cervical cancer. With a self-test, women can collect a sample at home in a simple and convenient way.

CC Diagnostics is developing the Methica CC kit, a self-test that uses DNA methylation to detect early abnormalities. The aim is to support earlier detection and give patients a better chance of successful treatment.

During Zwarte Cross, the team tested four different ways of collecting a sample at home: the Evalyn Brush, Floqswab, Coari and Daye diagnostic tampon. The main question was simple: which method do women find easiest and most comfortable to use?

The interest was high. 192 women took part in the study, and on average 80% of the women approached agreed to participate. The Evalyn Brush was the most popular choice (40%), followed by the Floqswab (35%). Coari received 15% and the Daye tampon 10%.

The test also showed that preferences differ between groups. Younger women taking a self-test for the first time were more likely to choose the Floqswab. Women with previous testing experience tended to prefer the sturdier Evalyn Brush.

Engagement remained high after the test: 172 of the 192 participants left their email address for future research. One practical lesson was clear: nobody wanted to carry the test kit around the festival. Sending the kit to participants’ homes is therefore the most practical option.

The next step is to analyse the samples in the laboratory and combine these results with the women’s preferences. This will help CC Diagnostics decide which two self-test methods perform best.