First Cervical Cancer Screening Delayed Until Age 21

Amidst the hubbub caused by the new breast cancer screening guidelines put forth by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, new cervical cancer screening guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists were revealed this past week with much less controversy. According to ACOG, "A review of the evidence to date shows that screening at less frequent intervals prevents cervical cancer just as well, has decreased costs, and avoids unnecessary interventions that could be harmful." The new recommendation is to screen women between the ages of 21 and 30 every two years instead of annually. Women 30 and older with a history of 3 consecutive negative pap smears may be screened every 3 years. Recommendations for older women remain unchanged - those 65 to 70 who have had 3 consecutive negative pap smears and no abnormal results within the past 10 years may consider stopping cervical cancer screening. Of course, every person's medical history is different and these guidelines should be only used as such. Appropriate screening frequencies should always be discussed and formulated between you and your physician.

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