New STD Urine-Based Test

Two companies have combined efforts to develop a urine-based test for three sexually transmitted diseases.

Calypte Biomedical Corporation and Becton, Dickinson and Company will promote the Sentinel Testing Service for HIV, chlamydia, and gonorrehea. This could revolutionize testing because the urine-based system eliminates the much feared needle testing and uncomfortable urogenital swab collection methods.

More importantly, this further eliminates risk for healthcare workers becoming potentially infected by HIV positive blood.

Studies have shown that many Americans shy away from STD tests that require a blood sample or a urogenital swab. However, urine samples offer an inexpensive and simple method of collection.

Officials creating the new test hope this simplicity will carry over to smaller community outreach programs and epidemiologic studies. Individuals without medical training will be able to administer the test.

Licensed medical professionals can order the test on the Sentinel website or by phone.