Mind, Body & Heart

Screening is a mustCervical cancer is a significant health concern affecting women worldwide, but early detection through regular screenings can make a substantial difference in prevention and treatment outcomes. Understanding the importance of specific tests is crucial for women’s health. Dr. Ashish Gupta’, Chief Oncologist from Unique Hospital Cancer Centre, Delhi lays emphasis on the importance of cervical cancer screening in preventing and early detection of this common cause of death from cancer in women.

The PAP Test (Pap Smear)Your gynecologist conducts a simple test for detecting cervical cancer known as Pap Smear Test. They take a smear (swab) of your cervix and the cells are examined under a microscope to look for any abnormal changes. This can detect both cancer as well as pre-cancer. If the smear tests precancerous it can be prevented from becoming cancer. If cancerous – it is usually detected in the first or the 2nd stage itself at which time it is very curable. The PAP smear tests is conducted in females starting at the age of 21 uptil the age 65 once every three years.

The HPV TestWe know that the HPV virus causes most types of cervical cancer. HPV test is a DNA test that detects the high-risk types of HPV most frequently causing cervical cancer. This test is conducted started at the age of 30 uptil 65 once every 5 years alone or in combination with the Pap test (co-test). After the age of 65 if prior tests are negative this testing is stopped.*Note the screening recommendations are for average risk women, for those with a family history of cervical cancer, HIV or immunosuppression, you need to consult your doctor.

Kayalvizhi Arivalan, Femina