Introduction
Metropolis Healthcare Limited, India’s second-largest diagnostic chain, has launched a high-risk HPV DNA test in collaboration with Roche Diagnostics India and Neighbouring Markets. This self-sampling HPV DNA test is a game-changing initiative aimed at enhancing cervical cancer screening accessibility across India, particularly in Tier 2, Tier 3, and Tier 4 towns.
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, yet India accounts for 21% of global cervical cancer cases, leading to nearly 79,000 deaths annually. Late-stage detection remains a significant concern, making early screening essential. The introduction of this clinically validated, FDA-approved, and WHO-prequalified HPV DNA test is expected to drive early diagnosis and reduce mortality rates.
Why the HPV DNA Test Matters
Current Challenges in Cervical Cancer Screening
- Only 1.9% of Indian women undergo regular cervical cancer screening (as per the 2020 NHFS survey).
- Stigma, discomfort, and lack of access prevent widespread screening.
- Most diagnoses occur in late stages, limiting treatment options and increasing mortality.
How the HPV DNA Test Helps
The HPV DNA test is a WHO-recommended first-choice screening method that detects 14 high-risk HPV types in a single test. Its key benefits include:
Self-Sampling Feature – Women can collect samples privately, addressing stigma and discomfort.
Accurate & Reliable – Clinically validated with high sensitivity for early detection.
Convenient Access – Available across Metropolis Healthcare’s nationwide laboratory network.
Proactive Cancer Prevention – Enables early intervention and reduces late-stage diagnoses.
According to Dr. Kirti Chadha, Chief Scientific and Innovation Officer, Metropolis Healthcare,
“Cervical cancer’s slow progression provides a crucial opportunity for early detection, yet lack of awareness and screening remains a challenge. The self-sampling HPV DNA test is a breakthrough that makes screening more accessible and patient-friendly.”
Expert Insights on the Launch
Metropolis Healthcare Leadership Perspective
Surendran Chemmenkotil, CEO, Metropolis Healthcare Limited, emphasized:
“Cervical cancer remains a major health challenge in India, despite being preventable through early screening and vaccination. By introducing advanced screening tools like the HPV DNA test, in collaboration with Roche Diagnostics India, we aim to expand access to early detection across the country.”
Roche Diagnostics India’s Viewpoint
Rishubh Gupta, Managing Director, Roche Diagnostics India, added:
“Our cobas HPV DNA test empowers women with a solution that removes the barriers of embarrassment and discomfort associated with traditional screening methods. We are confident that Metropolis Healthcare’s extensive laboratory network will facilitate large-scale adoption of cervical cancer screening, particularly in underserved regions.”
Metropolis Healthcare’s Role in Expanding Diagnostic Services
Nationwide Reach & Infrastructure
Metropolis Healthcare, founded in 1981 and led by Ameera Shah, Promoter & Executive Chairperson, operates:
- 200+ laboratories
- 4,300 service centers
- 10,000+ touchpoints
- Presence in 22 states, 3 Union Territories, and over 700 towns
Each year, Metropolis serves millions of patients, providing high-quality diagnostic solutions that support better clinical outcomes.
Commitment to Quality & Innovation
- 4,000+ tests and profiles covering cancer, neurological disorders, infectious diseases, and genetic abnormalities.
- Consistently achieved 98%+ CAP proficiency score for a decade, placing it in the top 1% of global laboratories for quality assurance.
Metropolis Healthcare’s philosophy is built on:
Technological Superiority
Patient-Centric Approach
Accurate & Reliable Diagnostic Reports
Conclusion
The launch of Metropolis Healthcare’s high-risk HPV DNA test marks a significant step toward preventing cervical cancer in India. By providing self-sampling options, expanding accessibility, and leveraging a nationwide diagnostic network, this initiative is set to revolutionize cervical cancer screening and contribute to reducing mortality rates.
With a strong commitment to healthcare innovation, Metropolis Healthcare continues to lead the way in early disease detection and prevention, ensuring a healthier future for Indian women.