What Is Cervical Cancer Screening?

Cervical cancer is a form of cancer that takes place inside the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It is typically caused by chronic infection with excessive-chance sorts of human papillomavirus (HPV). Early degrees frequently don't have any symptoms, making regular screening vital. If cervical cancers are detected early, they can be handled. Cervical cancer breaks vaginal hygiene and causes vaginal yeast infections. Cervical screening includes testing to detect precancerous modifications or early-level cervical cancers in women. The primary strategies are the Pap take a look at (Pap smear), which assesses for atypical cells inside the cervix, and the HPV check, which detects the presence of high-chance kinds of human papillomavirus that could result in cervical cancer.

What is Cervical Screening?

Cervical screening is a preventive fitness degree used to come across extraordinary cells inside the cervix that would probably develop into cervical cancer. The screening normally involves a Pap to take a look at which exams for mobile modifications are performed, and sometimes an HPV test in women, which identifies the presence of the human papillomavirus that may motivate these adjustments. Early detection through normal cervical screening allows for timely intervention, reducing the risk of cervical cancers.

How is Cervical Cancer Caused?

Cervical cancer is caused due to the HPV Human Papilloma Virus. The virus affects the cervical region by causing infection in the entire cervical region. In this case, cervical screening can be done for prevention.HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection. When the body's immune system fails to clear the virus, it can cause changes in the cervical cells over time, leading to precancerous conditions and, eventually, cervical cancer and also leading to discharge of cervical mucus. Other factors that may increase the risk include smoking, having a weakened immune system, long-term use of hormonal birth control methods, and having multiple sexual partners.

Types of Cervical Screening Test

There are several types of cervical screening tests used to detect abnormalities that could lead to cervical cancer.

Pap Smear Test

This test involves collecting cells from the cervix and examining them under a microscope to identify abnormal changes. It can detect precancerous changes and early-stage cancer. During the test, a healthcare provider gently scrapes cells from the cervix, which is the lower, narrow end of the uterus that opens into the vagina. The collected cells are then examined under a microscope for abnormalities.

The primary purpose of a Pap smear is to detect precancerous or cancerous cells on the cervix. Detecting these changes early allows for treatment before they develop into cervical cancer. It's a crucial test for women, typically recommended starting at age 21 and continuing regularly depending on age, health history, and previous test results.

HPV Test

An HPV (Human Papillomavirus) test is used to screen for cervical cancer by detecting the presence of high-risk HPV types that are most likely to cause cervical cancer. HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection, and certain strains, particularly HPV 16 and HPV 18, are strongly associated with the development of cervical cancer.

• Sample Collection: A healthcare provider collects cells from the cervix, typically during a Pap smear. This sample is then tested for the presence of high-risk HPV DNA.
• Analysis: The test specifically looks for the DNA of high-risk HPV types that are known to cause changes in cervical cells, potentially leading to cancer.
• Negative Result: No high-risk HPV types are detected, meaning the risk of cervical cancer is low.
• Positive Result: High-risk HPV types are detected, which may require further monitoring or additional tests, such as a colposcopy or a biopsy, to determine if there are any precancerous or cancerous changes in the cervical cells.

Cotesting(HPV+ PAP)

Co-testing for cervical cancer involves using two screening tests simultaneously: the HPV (Human Papillomavirus) test and the Pap test (Papanicolaou test). HPV tests check for the presence of high-risk HPV types that are known to cause cervical cancer. Pap test examines cells from the cervix to detect any abnormalities or changes that could indicate pre-cancerous conditions or cervical cancer.

Co-testing is typically recommended for women aged 30 and older and provides a more comprehensive assessment. If both tests are negative, the likelihood of cervical cancer is very low, and women may not need to be screened as frequently.

Guidelines and Criteria of Cervical Cancer

Women Aged 21–29 Years

A Pap Test (Cytology) every three years is recommended. HPV testing is not recommended as part of routine screening because HPV infections are common and often resolve without treatment in this age group.

Women Aged 30–65 Years

Co-testing (HPV + Pap) every five years is recommended as the preferred approach. Alternatively, a Pap test alone every three years is acceptable. Another option is HPV testing alone every five years, which some guidelines support.

Women Over 65 Years

No screening is recommended if they have had consistent negative results in the previous screenings and are not at high risk for cervical cancer. Women with a history of cervical pre-cancer should continue to be screened for at least 20 years after the diagnosis.

After Hysterectomy

If the cervix was removed and the surgery was not related to cervical cancer or pre-cancer, further Pap tests or HPV tests are generally not required. If the hysterectomy was performed due to cervical cancer or pre-cancer, screening may continue for at least 20 years after surgery to monitor for any recurrence. 

Women who have had a subtotal hysterectomy (where the cervix is left intact) should continue with routine cervical cancer screening according to the guidelines for their age group (e.g., Pap test every three years, co-testing every five years).  

HIV Positive Women

For HIV-positive women, cervical cancer screening guidelines are more firm due to their increased risk of developing cervical cancer. The recommendations include beginning screening at the time of HIV diagnosis, regardless of age, and continuing throughout their lifetime, often with more frequent intervals than the general population.

Test Results of Cervical Screening

HIV-positive women should receive a  Pap test at the time of diagnosis and again in 6 to 12 months. If both initial tests are standard, they should continue with annual Pap tests. Some guidelines also recommend co-testing (HPV + Pap) starting at age 30, with follow-up intervals depending on the results. More frequent screening procedures, such as colposcopy, may be necessary for those with abnormal results.

Women With a High Risk of Cervical Cancer

Women with a high risk of cervical cancer include those with a history of cervical dysplasia or cancer, those with HIV or other immune-compromising conditions, those exposed to DES (diethylstilbestrol) in the uterus, and those with persistent high-risk HPV infections. These women typically require more frequent cervical screening and follow-up, even beyond the age when routine screening might normally stop.

Women with a high risk of cervical cancer include those with a history of cervical dysplasia or cancer.

Conclusion

Cervical screening is a vital preventive health measure aimed at detecting pre-cancerous changes and early-stage cervical cancer in women. Regular screening, through Pap tests and HPV testing, significantly reduces the incidence and mortality of cervical cancer by identifying abnormalities before they progress to cancer. The guidelines for screening vary based on age, medical history, and risk factors, such as HIV status or a history of cervical abnormalities. For women at average risk, screening typically begins at age 21 and continues until 65, with specific recommendations for frequency and methods. Adhering to these guidelines ensures early detection, timely intervention, and better outcomes, making cervical cancer screening an essential component of women's healthcare.

Cervical screening is a vital preventive health measure aimed at detecting pre-cancerous changes and early-stage cervical cancer in women. Regular cervical screening, through pap and HIV testing, significantly reduces the risk of cancer. 

FAQ’s

Why Is Cervical Cancer Screening Important?

Cervical Cancer screening is crucial because it helps detect abnormal changes in cervical cells before they develop into cancer. Early detection allows for timely treatment, which can prevent cervical cancer from developing.

At What Age Should I Start To Get Screened?

Cervical Screening typically begins at age 21. Women aged 21-29 should have a Pap smear every three years. From age 30 to 65, women should have a Pap smear combined with an HPV test every five years or a Pap smear alone every three years.

How Is A Pap Smear Performed?

Can Women With High Risk Of Cervical Cancer Can Be Cured?

Women with a high risk of cervical cancer can be cured if it is detected in the earlier stage. In the last stage of cancer detection, it is quite impossible to cure the disease completely, but the medications and treatment provide significant benefits to be free from symptoms. 

How Often Should I Get Screened?

The frequency of cervical screening depends on your age, medical history, and the results of previous tests. Women aged 21-29 should have a Pap test every three years. Women aged 30-65 can have a Pap test combined with an HPV test every five years or a Pap test alone every three years.