NCT07281430 · National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Self-collection for HPV Testing to Improve Cervical Cancer Prevention (SHIP) Trial (LMI-001-A-S04)
What this study is about
This clinical trial evaluates the use of self-collected vaginal samples for human papillomavirus (HPV) testing in patients referred for a colposcopy and/or cervical excisional procedures to improve cervical cancer prevention. HPV is a common virus which usually causes infections that last only a few months, but sometimes can last longer.
View original scientific description
This clinical trial evaluates the use of self-collected vaginal samples for human papillomavirus (HPV) testing in patients referred for a colposcopy and/or cervical excisional procedures to improve cervical cancer prevention. HPV is a common virus which usually causes infections that last only a few months, but sometimes can last longer. HPV is known to cause a variety of cancers including cervical cancer. Even though there are ways to detect cervical cancer, many individuals are not diagnosed. Over half of all new cervical cancer cases are among those who have either never been screened or who are not screened enough. The low screening numbers show more testing needs to be done. Without appropriate screening and care, preventable precancer may turn into cancer. A new way to detect cervical cancer is to have individuals collect their own sample for HPV testing to know their risk for cervical cancer. This may give individuals more flexibility and comfort having the ability to collect samples themselves, compared to a doctor performing a speculum examination and collecting the samples in a clinic. Information gathered from this study compares clinical accuracy of HPV testing on self-collected vaginal samples versus cervical samples collected by clinician. The Self-collection for HPV Testing to Improve Cervical Cancer Prevention (SHIP) Trial is part of the National Cancer Institute (NCI)'s Cervical Cancer 'Last Mile' Initiative, a public private partnership that seeks to increase access to cervical cancer screening. The SHIP Trial focuses on developing clinical evidence to inform the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)'s regulatory reviews of self-collection approaches as alternative sample collection approaches for cervical cancer screening. Several industry partner-specific self-collection device and assay combinations will be non-competitively and independently evaluated with a similar study design framework to inform pre-approval and/or post-approval regulatory requirements.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Willingness and ability to provide a documented informed consent
- Is 25 years or older
- Has an intact cervix
- Has had a referral for colposcopy in which routine cervical cancer screening has included positive HPV testing (HPV primary screening, co-testing, or atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance \[ASC-US\] cytology triage) or abnormal cytology performed within the past 12 months preceding the referral visit, and/or for cervical excisional procedure
- Willing and able to undergo colposcopy, and if clinically indicated for SOC purposes, a biopsy, endocervical curettage, and/or a cervical excisional procedure, as applicable
Exclusion criteria
- Is pregnant when presenting for the referral visit or gave birth within the past 3 months
- Has a known history of excisional or ablative therapy to the cervix (e.g., loop electrosurgical excision procedure \[LEEP\], cone biopsy, cervical laser surgery, cryotherapy, thermal ablation) in the last 12 months prior to the referral visit
- Has had a complete or partial hysterectomy, either supracervical or involving removal of the cervix, via self-report or confirmation via medical records
- Known medical conditions that, in the opinion of the investigator, preclude study participation
- Previous participation in the SHIP Trial or another cervical cancer screening study within the past 12 months. Participation is defined as completing the self-collection
- Is experiencing unusual bleeding or pelvic pain
Where
- Birmingham, Alabama
- Atlanta, Georgia
- Lafayette, Louisiana
- New Orleans, Louisiana
- Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Albuquerque, New Mexico
- The Bronx, New York
- Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Cincinnati, Ohio
- Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
And 3 more locations — see the full list below.
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jul 7, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations