Dec
27
In the United States the incidence of cervical cancer has decreased more than 50% in the past 30 years because of widespread screening with the Pap smear. Attributable deaths have undergone a similar decrease. The discovery of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) as a necessary factor in cancer of the cervix has resulted in the development of new screening technologies and vaccines. Consequently, screening recommendations need to be updated.
The American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists just released new cervical cancer screening guidelines. Highlights include the following:
- Begin screening women at age 21
- Screen women 21 29 years old every 2 years
- Screen women 30 and over every 3 years once they accumulate 3 consecutive negative traditional Paps
Alternatively, consider addition of High Risk HPV test. If both Pap & HPV negative then do not screen sooner than 3 years with this combination.
[This is what we do at Women’s Health Specialists] - Stop cervical cancer screening at 65-70 years old and the woman has 3 consecutive negative Paps
- Women who have undergone a total hysterectomy (removal of cervix) may discontinue screening if they don’t have a history of high grade pre cancerous growths or cervical cancer
- High risk patients need screening annually:
- Previously treated high grade pre cancerous growths for at least 20 years afterwards
- Immunosuppressed patients & HIV
- Women whose mother’s took DES (Diethylstilbestrol) while pregnant
Women often find it helpful to know that 80% of adults will be infected with HPV during their lifetime and most will clear it within 8 to 24 months. The combination of a negative PAP and High Risk HPV screen reassures us better than 99% by excluding the presence of high grade pre cancerous growths or cervical cancer. We hope this information helps clarify any confusion resulting from recent media announcements. We look forward to seeing you every year, not only keep you up-to-date on health screening tests but also advances in women’s health care that may apply to you.
PS: Dr. Wong got married in November!
Wishing you good health,
Women’s Health Specialists
2299 Mowry Avenue, Suite #3C
Fremont, CA 94538
510.796.7057
www.WomensHealthFremont.com
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