Did you know that having a Pap test annually is no longer recommended by leading medical organizations? New cervical cancer screening guidelines recently released separately by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and the American Cancer Society (ACS) recommend against routine yearly testing.
Instead, the guidelines recommend testing every three years for women ages 21-65; routine cervical cancer screening for women under 21 and over 65 is no longer recommended. The two groups also introduced the option of a lengthened, five-year screening interval for women ages 30-65 when screened with a combination of Pap testing and human papillomavirus (HPV) testing.
These recommendations apply to women who have a cervix, regardless of sexual history. These recommendations do not apply to women who have received a diagnosis of a high-grade precancerous cervical lesion or cervical cancer, women with in utero exposure to diethylstilbestrol, or women who are immunocompromised (such as those who are HIV positive).
Find out what's happening in Salemfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Ask your primary care provider about these guidelines and how they apply to you.
Health tip brought to you by Whole Care. Affordable monthly membership options if you have high-deductible insurance. Massage therapy on Mondays. Visit our website to book an appointment.
