Introduction of the HPV test in Cervical Cancer Screening in Belgium

In December 2022, the Interministerial Conference (IMC) of Public Health decided (in line with the IMC's earlier decisions during the previous reign) to switch from cytology to primary HPV screening for cervical cancer (from the age of 30 onwards). This decision is based on available scientific evidence ranging from the 2015 KCE report 238 to very recent analyses conducted by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). This shift will become effective on 01/01/2025.
We herewith provide you with a brief overview of the clinical guidelines accompanying the new screening algorithms, the nomenclature changes, the list of accepted HPV tests, special provisions for accreditation of medical laboratories and regulations on the registration of the screening results. From December 2024 onwards, all information will be summarised on Cervical Cancer Screening