The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized LetsGetChecked to sell the Simple 2 test system. The press release states that it is the first home-based test for chlamydia and gonorrhea.
The Simple 2 test system is available over-the-counter and is suitable for 18 years old and older people. It is the second FDA-approved home-based test designed to detect sexually transmitted infections. The first was the OraQuick rapid HIV test in 2012.
The test uses either vaginal swabs or urine samples. The test determines the presence of the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which cause chlamydia and gonorrhea. We would like to add that the most common sexually transmitted bacterial infections are the ones mentioned above. Both diseases are usually well treated, with the exception of drug-resistant gonorrhea. However, lack of treatment can lead to serious health complications for patients, such as infertility.
To take the test, you need to register the kit online and fill out a health questionnaire that will be assessed by a healthcare provider. The user collects the sample at home and sends it to the selected laboratory for testing. The results will be available online. In addition, the user receives the necessary medical care.
Dr Jeff Shuren of the FDA said: “This authorisation marks an important milestone in public health by giving patients greater privacy.”
Experts believe that increased access to STI testing could help patients get results faster and receive the most appropriate therapy, ultimately helping to stem the rising incidence of the disease.