24/07/2025
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Think before you spend your heard-earned money on test-yourself kits: some are useful, some are not, and they will likely advise you to consult your GP anyway.
If you are wondering about getting tested for a specific issue, you can submit a query on our website for advice (non-urgent matters only).
Are shop-bought health tests putting you at risk?
A landmark new study from our researchers, highlights serious concerns about the safety and reliability of self-testing kits sold in UK stores.
Many of these tests come with unclear instructions, questionable accuracy, and little oversight.
Our experts are now calling for stricter regulations to ensure these products are safe, effective, and trustworthy.
In a series of papers published by The British Medical Journal, the research team reviewed 30 self-testing kits bought at mainstream supermarkets, pharmacies and health and wellbeing shops.
These tests looked at everything from vitamin deficiency, to menopause and bowel cancer.
Study co-author Professor Jon Deeks said: “A plethora of new health self-tests have emerged in recent years and are available to buy from many high street supermarkets and pharmacies in the UK. While these kits have been approved for sale, they are not subject to the same stringent regulations as pharmaceutical products.
