Waters and Labcorp Partner to Revolutionize Cervical Cancer Screening Access with Innovative HPV Testing Options by 2026

Waters Corporation and Labcorp Join Forces to Enhance Cervical Cancer Screening Access

In an ambitious initiative announced on October 23, 2026, Waters Corporation and Labcorp have declared their partnership aimed at significantly improving access to cervical cancer screening through cutting-edge HPV testing. This new collaboration focuses on the FDA-approved BD Onclarity™ HPV Assay, designed to provide comprehensive testing options that will cater to patients in various settings including clinics, patient service centers, and even at-home tests.

Cervical cancer remains a critical health issue, predominantly preventable when caught early through routine screenings. Unfortunately, many women disproportionately experience delays in receiving their tests due to various barriers. With this partnership, Labcorp aims to bridge this gap by enhancing the usability and reach of cervical cancer screenings across the United States.

A Game-Changer in HPV Testing

The BD Onclarity HPV Assay is recognized as the first and only FDA-approved test that satisfies the American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology (ASCCP) Enduring Risk-Based Management Guidelines. It extends the capability for genotyping, allowing for nuanced patient management based on individual risk factors associated with specific HPV strains. The ability to identify high-risk HPV genotypes, such as types 16, 18, and 45, is crucial. These are prevalently associated with an increased risk of cervical cancer.

As Cervical Cancer screenings are designed to save lives, the partnership aims to expand the scope of who can be screened. Labcorp, relying on its extensive network of over 2,200 patient service centers and relationships with more than 850,000 healthcare providers, will offer this innovative testing option, thus streamlining the patient experience and reaching women who have previously been left underserved.

Addressing Barriers to Screening

According to Dr. Jeff Andrews, Vice President of Medical Affairs at Waters Advanced Diagnostics, one of the primary challenges women face regarding cervical cancer screenings stems from privacy concerns, access issues, and socioeconomic barriers. By introducing flexible screening options that extend beyond traditional clinic visits, this partnership represents a pivotal move toward making cervical cancer screenings more accessible to all women, especially those historically marginalized.

Dr. Brian Caveney, Chief Medical and Scientific Officer at Labcorp, echoing this sentiment, emphasized the importance of providing greater access and options for HPV testing. "Too many women still face barriers to getting screened. By increasing accessibility, we aim to ensure more timely identification of cervical cancer risks, ultimately saving lives.", stated Caveney.

Looking Ahead

The launch of the BD Onclarity HPV Assay in late 2026 promises to revolutionize cervical cancer screening. As HPV vaccinations have reduced infections related to types 16 and 18, other high-risk strains have surfaced as significant contributors to cervical disease. This innovative test will help manage these shifting dynamics in patient care effectively.

Waters Corporation and Labcorp’s collaborative efforts are expected to set new benchmarks in the diagnostic field and change the approach toward cervical cancer prevention and awareness. To explore more about the aims of this partnership and access the testing when it becomes available, interested parties can visit Labcorp's cervical cancer screening page.

About Waters Corporation and Labcorp

Waters Corporation is a leading entity in life sciences and diagnostics, dedicated to enhancing scientific discovery through analytical technologies, whereas Labcorp is recognized globally for its laboratory services that assist in sound decision-making for health improvement. The partnership between these two organizations not only aims to diagnose cervical cancer earlier but also creates pathways for advancing women's health as a whole.

In conclusion, this partnership is a significant leap forward in tackling cervical cancer and making screenings accessible and effective for women across America. The commitment showcased by both Waters Corporation and Labcorp reflects a forward-thinking era, emphasizing healthcare equity and patient empowerment in preventative health measures.