The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has released a new draft recommendation that suggests testing for high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPV) every five years, even with a self-collected sample, as the preferred screening strategy for cervical cancer starting at age 30. This approach is recommended over traditional cervical cytology (Pap tests or Pap smears), which involve collecting cells from the cervix for signs of cancer.
The new recommendation is aimed at women ages 30 to 65, who are most likely to develop cervical cancer due to their exposure to high-risk HPV strains. HPV testing involves collecting a vaginal sample and checking cells for infection with high-risk types of HPV that can cause cervical cancer.
For women who cannot access HPV testing, Pap tests or co-testing with both HPV testing and cervical cytology may be used as an alternative screening option. The USPSTF emphasizes that HPV testing has the best balance of benefits and harms, but other screening options are effective as well.
The American Cancer Society also recommends HPV testing as part of a cervical cancer screening plan, citing its effectiveness in preventing cervical cancers. The new draft recommendation is not final but will be available for public comment through January 13, along with a draft evidence review.
The introduction of self-collection HPV tests allows patients to collect their own vaginal samples, which may expand access to screening for women who feel uncomfortable having the sample collected by a healthcare professional. The USPSTF aims to reduce barriers to cervical cancer screening, emphasizing that early detection is crucial in preventing and treating this type of cancer.
Overall, the new draft recommendation highlights the importance of HPV testing as a primary screening strategy for cervical cancer in women aged 30-65.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2024/12/10/health/index.html