bioLytical Launches World's Fastest HIV Self Test in UK

LONDON, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ —

Ahead of European HIV Testing Week (18-25 November), the world’s fastest HIV self-test will go on sale in the UK, relieving pressure on overcrowded sexual health clinics.

bioLytical Laboratories, a world leader in rapid infectious disease tests, has developed the INSTI® HIV Self Test following research revealing that over 103,000 people are living with HIV in the UK and an estimated 18,100 remain unaware of their positive status. (1)

Stan Miele, bioLytical’s Chief Commercial Officer, says: ‘Our purpose in developing the INSTI HIV Self Test was to provide an easy, affordable, consumer-friendly solution that would empower individuals to take control of their health in a discrete way, and within the comfort of their own home. Consumers want to know their status as soon as possible. Now they can choose INSTI which detects HIV up to two weeks sooner than all other HIV home tests currently on the market.’

Recent reports have shown that funding cuts have resulted in clinic closures across the country, which is putting tremendous pressure on the remaining clinics. (2) Specifically in high prevalence areas, failure to fund routine testing in GP surgeries is leading to late diagnosis. (3,4)

With one finger prick and a single drop of blood, the INSTI HIV Self Test provides instant results and is over 99% accurate. With other home tests, individuals must wait 15 to 20 minutes (after the test is conducted) for a result to be produced or several days or weeks in the case of laboratory tests.
The INSTI HIV Self Test kit also includes a resource card on where to seek help or for those who have general questions on HIV screening.

Mr. Miele continues: ‘To supplement the test, a clear guide is provided directing consumers to the right place to seek further support and advice following the result. It will be important to liaise directly with their local GP or sexual health clinic in the case of a positive result.’

The test is available now online at www.INSTI-HIVSelfTest.com and costs 29.95 Euros (£25.95*) per kit.

*sold in Euros – sale price in sterling subject to exchange rate
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1 http://www.hivaware.org.uk/facts-myths/hiv-statistics
2 https://www.theguardian.com/healthcare-network/views-from-the-nhs-frontline/2016/jun/27/government-cuts-are-brewing-a-sexual-health-crisis
3 http://www.localgov.co.uk/Councils-failing-to-fund-HIV-testing/41834
4 http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-37633936

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