High street self-tests for bowel cancer and menopause may be unfit for purpose, researchers warn
New research exposes the risk of store-bought self-test kits
- Researchers from the University of Birmingham have warned that high street self-tests for conditions like vitamin deficiencies, menopause, and bowel cancer may not be fit for purpose.
- A review of 30 self-tests found many lacked crucial information on who should use them, how to interpret results, or what actions to take afterwards.
- Concerns were raised about the accuracy claims of these tests, with evidence often being unavailable or of low quality, and 18 tests were deemed "high risk".
- Experts, including Professor Kristien Boelaert, highlighted the potential for "false reassurance" and increased demand on the NHS due to these unregulated products.
- Calls have been made for urgent, tighter regulation of the booming self-test market, which is projected to reach £660m by 2030 in the UK.