Cervical Cancer, HPV, human papilloma virus

Screening for cervical cancer:

Cervical cancer screening with cytology (Pap smear) once every 3 years for women ages 21 to 65 years, or screening with cytology and human papillomavirus (HPV) testing every 5 years for women ages 30 to 65 years is strongly recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). The USPSTF recommends against cervical cancer screening in women: a) younger than age 21 years; b) older than age 65 years who have had adequate prior screening and are not otherwise at high risk for cervical cancer; and c) who have had a hysterectomy with removal of the cervix and who do not have a history of a high-grade precancerous lesion or cervical cancer. Additionally, in women younger than age 30 years, the USPSTF recommends against screening for cervical cancer with HPV testing, alone or in combination with cytology. (2)