Understanding Pap smears Reasons for low uptake The importance of regular screening Encouraging Pap smear compliance References Further reading Cervical cancer is the fourth most common female cancer,...
Reasons for low uptake Cervical cancer is the fourth most common female cancer, with about 6,60,000 new cases and 3,50,000 deaths in 2022. It is also among the most easily prevented and treated cancers if caught early. This article discusses the importance of cervical screening as a crucial preventative measure in women's health.
HPV is found in practically all cervical cancers. This common sexually transmitted infection is typically asymptomatic and self-resolving within two years. 1,10 Two high-risk strains of HPV, strains 16 and 18, cause half of all cervical cancers. Immunization with current HPV vaccines before the age of 15 years can protect against these, but not other oncogenic strains. 1
Reasons for low uptake Women often refuse or ignore cervical screening because of prior bad experiences, misinformation, or lack of time off from home or the workplace. Others feel healthy or think that having had the HPV vaccine protects them from cervical cancer. 2 Even today, "cervical cancer screening was concentrated among individuals from wealthier households." 4 Lack of access, awareness, availability, and resources continue to plague women's health programs worldwide. 3, 4
Alternatively, an HPV/Pap co-test may be done every five years, beginning two years after a normal Pap test. Or a Pap test may be done every three years. Globally, the WHO advises at least two cervical smears by 35 and 45 years, respectively. 1, 10The benefits of cervical screening probably outweigh the possible harms, such as false-positive results causing unnecessary testing, anxiety, and fertility-impacting treatment. Again, false-negative results may reduce the chances of a cure.
Carcinoma Cervical Cancer Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia Cervix Chronic DNA Healthcare Immunity Neoplasia Public Health Research Virus Women's Health
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