Sukha
At-home smear tests for cervical cancer
Multidisciplinary design consultancy Matter has designed three conceptual cervical cancer examinations that women could carry out themselves at home to break the taboo of smear tests. The project, titled Sukha, comprises three Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) home test concepts called Your Space, My Cycles and Our Bodies, which aim to make cervical cancer screening experiences more positive for women. The test involves a vaginal examination, known as a smear or PAP test, where a small sample of cells is collected from the cervix and tested for abnormalities. This involves checking for a high-risk type of HPV – the name given to a common group of viruses that are passed on through any type of sexual contact – which is responsible for 99.7 per cent of all cervical cancers, as published on the NHS website. By designing at-home tests, Matter hopes to tackle the taboos surrounding smear tests that prevent women from attending their screenings.