Pap smears, a long-time standard for cervical cancer screening, may be used less frequently under new guidelines from the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force.
The most significant update from the original recommendations is that women ages 30 to 65 have an additional option when it comes to screenings. Under the revised recommendations, women can choose to undergo a human papilloma virus (HPV) test every five years, a Pap test every three years or both every five years.
“The Pap test has been around since the 1940’s and while a good test, it can miss pre-cancer cells early-on,” Kevin Ault, MD, division director for general obstetrics and gynecology at The University of Kansas Health System said. “The study clearly showed the HPV test did a better job at detecting pre-cancer cells earlier in the study group.”
Dr. Ault says the study confirms other tests done here in the states and abroad showing the HPV test to be effective in diagnosing cervical cancer. He says women wouldn't notice the difference between an HPV or Pap test, but they should ask their doctor about performing both screenings during their regular check-up. It’s important to note the HPV test only screens for cervical and not ovarian or other vaginal cancers.
In the video, Dr. Ault explains more about the study, who should ask for a HPV test for cervical cancer and when, what the test is like and what positive results mean for the patient.
