Introduction of DNA-HPV test in the Brazilian cervical cancer screening program: When the idea is good but does not fit the budget.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the financial applicability of the DNA-HPV test for cervical cancer screening in a developing country like Brazil.

METHODS

This was a retrospective, observational study based on documentary data, conducted to assess the cost-effectiveness of cervical cancer screening strategies in Brazil. The study used national cervical cancer screening data collected between January 1 and December 31, 2020 for women between 25 and 64 years old, performing a cost-effectiveness assessment of two different screening tests. No sensitivity analysis was conducted due to the descriptive nature of this preliminary cost assessment.

RESULTS

Based on the cervical smear, the Brazilian protocol has an estimated cost of US$117.5 million. In contrast, when using the HPV DNA test, the estimated cost is US$1.39 billion.

CONCLUSION

The current use of the cervical smear is the least expensive and the only one that aligns with Brazil's financial resources allocated to health.