Journal of Public Health Advance Access originally published online on October 18, 2006
Journal of Public Health 2006 28(4):370-374; doi:10.1093/pubmed/fdl051
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Range of self-tests available to buy in the United Kingdom: an Internet survey
A. Ryan, Clinical Research Fellow1
S. Wilson, Reader in Clinical Epidemiology1
S. Greenfield, Senior Lecturer1
S. Clifford, Project Officer1
R. J. McManus, Clinical Senior Lecturer1
H. M. Pattison, Senior Lecturer2
1 Department of Primary Care and General Practice, The University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
2 School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
Address correspondence to A. Ryan, E-mail: a.v.ryan{at}bham.ac.uk
We aimed to describe the availability in the United Kingdom of self-tests that are used to diagnose or screen for conditions without involving a health professional. A systematic Internet search identified 104 unique self-tests related to 24 named conditions including cancers, chronic conditions and infections. These self-tests require various samples including blood obtained using a lancet. The samples are processed at home with results available in minutes or sent to a laboratory for processing with results returned to the individual by e-mail or post. Prices per self-test and condition range from <£1 to £76. Self-tests are readily available, and further work is needed to assess their impact.
Keywords: diagnosis; diagnostic tests, routine; self-care