Cervical cancer was once the number one cancer killer, but with the introduction of the Pap smear almost 60 years ago, this cancer has become increasingly rare. The guidelines for cervical cancer screening are always evolving, and the American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology (ASCCP) has been at the forefront of these changes.
The relationship between high-risk HPV (human papillomavirus) and the development of pre-cervical and cervical cancer has been well established. Thankfully, most HPV infections are short-lived and not detected within 1-2 years. Only a small percentage of infected women will go on to develop a high-grade cervical abnormality or cervical cancer.
More than 80% of all women will develop a genital HPV infection by the time they reach the age of 50. HPV infections are the most common in young women, and again, these infections are cleared by most young women in less than two years.
We now have a good understanding of the natural history of HPV infections and the development of cervical cancer and the pre-cancers. ASCCP’s guidelines advise that cervical cancer screening should begin at age 21 regardless of the age of sexual initiation. Since most of the infections in the young will regress, starting a screening program at an earlier age may result in many unnecessary treatment interventions.
Remember to always discuss your particular concerns and develop your individual screening program with your healthcare professional.