WORDS LIM TECK CHOON
Note: This article was initially published on 22 August 2024. It was updated on 23 August with additional details about PapLite Pro™.
The Digital Health and Medical Advancement Impact Lab of Taylor’s University recently introduced PapLite Pro™.
Left to right: Nurse Thulasini Balachandran, Dr Kavinash Loganathan (Research Coordinator at the National Cancer Society of Malaysia), Professor Dr Chong Pei Pei (Digital Health and Medical Advancement Impact Lab Director & School of Biosciences Professor at the Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University), Maggy Wang (human papillomavirus awareness advocate. Click on the image for a larger, clearer version.
WHAT IS IT?
- It is an innovation that aims to enhance cervical screening by making it less invasive and more efficient.
- It addresses barriers such as the fear of discomfort and improves the visualization of the endocervix
- It allows for enhanced precision for cell sampling and convenience among women and medical practitioners.
WHAT ARE ITS ADVANTAGES OVER CONVENTIONAL PAP SMEAR TESTS?
Enhanced Visualization
PapLite Pro™ incorporates superior illumination technology that significantly improves the visibility of the transformation zone—the area around the opening of the cervix where the inner part (endocervix) comes together with the outer part (ectocervix).
This helps in obtaining a more accurate view, which is crucial for effective sampling.
Reduced Discomfort
The design of the PapLite Pro™ minimizes the physical discomfort typically associated with traditional Pap smears.
Its ergonomic features make the procedure less invasive, reducing patient anxiety and discomfort.
Increased Efficiency
The integration of lighting in the PapLite Pro™ allows for quicker and more efficient cell sampling. This reduces the duration of the procedure and enhances the overall efficiency of the screening process.
Lower Rate of Retakes
The accuracy in cell sampling decreases the likelihood of inadequate cells and lack of endocervical cells being sampled.
This saves time and reduces the strain on resources.
Improvement in Screening Uptake
By addressing common barriers such as fear and discomfort and repeated sampling, PapLite Pro™ encourages higher participation rates among women. Increased comfort and reduced procedural time make screenings more approachable for patients.
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THIS INNOVATION
“In Malaysia, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women aged 15 to 44. In 2020 alone, there were 1,740 new cases reported, with a mortality rate of 57%,” says Dr Kavinash Loganathan, the Research Coordinator at the National Cancer Society of Malaysia.
He adds: “These alarming figures are largely due to challenges like cultural stigmas, invasive screening techniques, patient preferences, and lack of awareness, all of which hinder the progress of cervical cancer screening uptakes.”
The improvements listed above can contribute to better screening experiences, which can lead to early detection and potentially higher survival rates for cervical cancer patients.
“The all-in-one Pap smear innovation eliminates shadows cast by the hand of the healthcare professional to better visualize the cervix. It is also ergonomically designed for improved ease of collecting sufficient cervical cells from the correct area of the cervix, resulting in accurate diagnostic test results compared to conventional Pap smear tools,” says Professor Dr Chong Pei Pei, the Digital Health and Medical Advancement Impact Lab Director.
The device, which is currently undergoing its efficacy testing, is expected to be ready for commercial roll-out within the next 24 months.
