Frequently Asked Questions

Screening for cervical cancer detects precancerous and cancerous cells of the cervix early, facilitating easier diagnosis, management, and treatment of this preventable cancer. Women aged 25 to 69 are advised to consult their healthcare providers and undergo an HPV or PAP test every three years. These tests check for abnormal, cancer-causing cells and the human papillomavirus in the cervix. The positive news is that cervical cancer is nearly entirely preventable with regular screening and timely follow-up of abnormal test results, along with HPV vaccination.

Worldwide, cervical cancer claims the lives of 300,000 women each year, as reported by the World Health Organization. In Canada, cervical cancer ranks as the second most prevalent cancer in women, with approximately 1,500 new cases diagnosed annually. Early detection of abnormalities through PAP and HPV screening increases the likelihood of survival, as managing pre-cancerous conditions and diagnosing cervical cancer in its early stages is more manageable. It's essential to recognize that cervical cancer is both preventable and treatable.

HPV testing and HPV immunization have been pivotal advancements in preventing, detecting, and managing cervical cancer precursors. HPV testing identifies the presence of cancer-causing viruses, predominantly HPV 16 and HPV 18, which can lead to abnormal cervical cells and cervical cancer. Test results help determine necessary steps and treatments to prevent cervical cancer. Three HPV vaccines are available: the bivalent vaccine, which protects against two high-risk types; the quadrivalent vaccine, which immunizes against both low-risk and high-risk types; and the 9-valent vaccine, which targets seven high-risk and low-risk types. HPV vaccination offers long-lasting protection, with research indicating it prevents nearly all vaccinated women from developing cervical cancer. Widespread vaccination could eliminate up to 90% of cervical cancers. Notably, no live vaccine is used. Ontario is the first province to recommend HPV testing in cervical screening. Countries like Australia and the Netherlands have already implemented HPV testing, while the United Kingdom is transitioning from primary cytology screening to primary HPV screening.

A PAP test detects abnormalities in cervical cells that may indicate precancerous or cancerous changes. During this test, a sample of cells from the cervix is collected with a brush and sent to a lab for analysis to determine their condition. In contrast, an HPV test identifies the type of HPV virus responsible for precancerous and cancerous changes in cervical cells. It can be performed concurrently with a PAP test using the same sample or as an alternative to the PAP test. HPV testing is more effective in assessing the risk of cervical cancer compared to a PAP smear.

Many women have never undergone cervical cancer screening, with only 60 to 70% of eligible women currently being screened. HPV testing offers objective criteria for evaluating and managing cervical abnormalities. In the coming years, the increased availability of HPV testing will enhance cervical screening programs, facilitating early identification and treatment according to best practices.