By Admin 
At What Age To Start Cervical Cancer Screening: Cervical cancer constitutes a major portion of cancer in women in India and has now become the second most common cancer in the country. Experts believe that if timely detection of any disease can really save lives, then it is cancer screening. Dr. Sahana K. P told TOI that cervical cancer is one of the few cancers for which effective, affordable and reliable screening tests are available.
Investigation is very important for prevention
About 70 to 80 percent of cases are caused by high-risk HPV human papilloma virus infection. This infection can remain without symptoms for years, but can later lead to precancerous changes or cancer. In such a situation, prevention and timely testing of HPV becomes very important. The Pap smear, commonly known as the Pap test, was developed in the 1940s. In this, cells are taken from the cervix and examined under a microscope, so that early abnormal changes can be detected. If identified in the early stages, treatment is easier and more likely to be successful.
How many types of tests are there?
Pap test is done in two ways, the first is the traditional method, in which cells are taken from the cervix and placed on a slide. Second, liquid based cytology, in which cells are taken with a special brush, preserved in a liquid medium and sent to the lab. This technique is considered more advanced, because it also makes it possible to test HPV DNA in the same sample.
Why should the test be done?
Many women do not get tested thinking that if there are no symptoms then there is no need for testing. Whereas the purpose of screening is to detect early changes in women without symptoms. Generally, it is advisable to start Pap test from the age of 21 or after becoming sexually active. It is recommended to have a Pap test every three years between the ages of 21 to 30 and every three years between the ages of 30 to 65, or an HPV test with a Pap test every five years.
take care of these things
This test is simple and is completed in a few minutes in the clinic. Do not use tampons or menstrual cups on the day of testing and avoid testing during periods. A “screen positive” result does not mean cancer but requires further testing, while a “screen negative” result is a comforting result. In simple words, Pap test is a simple, safe and life-saving test. With regular screening, the risk of cervical cancer can be reduced to a great extent and women can be assured of a long, healthy life.
Also read: Cancer Warning Symptoms: 15 lakh cases of cancer are increasing every year in the country, know the 3 most common symptoms of the deadly disease.
Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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