Methods of detecting cervical cancer and the importance of early screening

Every January, the world turns turquoise to mark Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, a global health event aimed at highlighting the importance of prevention and early detection of this disease. These annual campaigns are a response to global statistics indicating that cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide, despite being one of the most preventable and curable cancers if detected in its early stages.

As part of international and local efforts to combat this disease, medical calls are renewed for women to adhere to regular screenings. In line with the global strategy adopted by health organizations to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem, Al-Youm newspaper met with Dr. Mohamed Fouad, a consultant in obstetrics, gynecology, and infertility, to provide a medical roadmap outlining detection methods, available tests, and the age groups that should be particularly vigilant and monitored.

The importance of early detection and its mechanisms

Dr. Mohamed Fouad explained that the primary goal of screening procedures is to detect cellular changes before they develop into a malignant tumor. The examination focuses on the cervix, the lower passage of the uterus that connects to the vagina, to look for any abnormal (potentially cancerous) cells or the presence of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is the leading cause of most cases of cervical cancer.

The consultant stressed that discovering these changes in their early stages makes the recovery rate very high, as doctors can intervene and remove the damaged cells before they worsen, thus sparing the patient a long and complicated treatment journey.

Types of tests and how they are performed

Dr. Fouad pointed out that there are two main internationally recognized methods for detecting the disease:
1. Pap smear: This is the traditional test known as Pap smear, in which a small sample of cells from the cervix is ​​scraped and examined microscopically to detect any abnormalities.
2. Human papillomavirus (HPV) test: This test focuses on detecting the virus's DNA within cells to determine if a woman is infected with one of the high-risk types of the virus.
The two tests can also be combined in what is known as a "combined test" to increase the accuracy of the results.

Regarding the examination procedure, Dr. Fouad reassured women that it is simple, quick, and usually painless, performed in the clinic using a speculum and a precise instrument for taking the sample. He added that no complicated preparations are required, and the examination can be performed at most times, even during menstruation or after intercourse, although choosing a time convenient for the patient is preferable.

Age recommendations and examination frequency

Regarding the appropriate age to start the examination, Dr. Mohamed Fouad explained that modern medical recommendations advise starting a cervical smear from the age of 21, while it is preferable to start the HPV test from the age of 25, provided that this is after marriage and the start of sexual activity.

The frequency of testing varies based on age and previous results:
• From 21 to 29 years: A cervical smear is recommended every 3 years.
• From 30 to 65 years: A smear can be done every 3 years, or a test for the virus every 5 years, or both every 5 years.
• After age 65: Testing can be discontinued if previous results have been negative and consistent over the years, and there are no immunological problems.

The vaccine does not eliminate the need for testing

Dr. Fouad concluded his remarks by clarifying a crucial point regarding the HPV vaccine. While the vaccine represents a medical breakthrough and the first line of defense for prevention, it does not offer 100% protection against all cancer-causing strains of the virus. Therefore, he emphasized the importance of women who have received the vaccine continuing their regular checkups according to the recommended schedule.

In the event of abnormal results, the doctor confirmed that this does not necessarily mean cancer, as many cases of viral infection resolve spontaneously thanks to the body's immunity, but medical follow-up remains necessary to ensure complete safety.