Question

Women 30 years and older should be screened how often by cytology alone if no HPV screening is available?

1) Every 3 years
2) Every 5 years
3) Every 10 years
4) Every year

Answer 1

Women 30 years and older should be screened using cytology alone every 3 years if no HPV screening is available. Regular Pap smear screenings are important for detecting pre-cancerous cells and ensuring early treatment of cervical cancer.

Step-by-step explanation:

Women who are 30 years and older should be screened for cervical cancer using cytology alone every 3 years if no HPV screening is available. According to general guidelines, starting at age 21, Pap smears should be repeated every three years until age 50, and then every five years until age 65.

HPV testing, which is the primary method used to detect HPV, is included in guidelines for women and is recommended every five years if previous tests are negative. The reason why HPV testing is recommended alongside a Pap test starting at age 30 is because HPV infections are quite common and can cause cervical cancer. Regular screening is crucial because cervical cancer has a high cure rate if detected early, and Pap smears can effectively identify pre-cancerous cells in the cervix.