Report: 20-somethings can go 2 years between cervical cancer tests

WASHINGTON (AP) - New medical guidelines are calling for fewer Pap smears for most women in their 20s.

By: Phillip Sayblack | WNCT-On Your Side
Published: November 20, 2009

» Comments | Post a Comment

WASHINGTON (AP) - New medical guidelines are calling for fewer Pap smears for most women in their 20s.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says having the tests every two years is enough to catch slow-growing cervical cancer in women under 30. Previous rules had called for annual testing.
The new guidelines also say that routine Pap screening should begin at age 21. Previously, ACOG had urged a first Pap either within three years of first sexual intercourse or at age 21.
Pap smears can spot pre-cancerous changes in the cervix in time to prevent invasive cancer. Widespread use has halved cervical cancer rates in the U.S. in recent decades.
The change comes amid a completely separate debate over when regular mammograms to detect breast cancer should begin. ACOG says the timing is a coincidence.
The recommendations are published in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology.

Reader Comments

*Facebook Account Required to Comment. If you are not already logged into Facebook, please click the comment button to do so.

Deal of the Day

Interactive Radar

Caught On Camera

Hundreds of Marilyn Monroe look-a-likes gather to break world record

A bear and moose take the path less traveled and hundreds of Marilyn Monroe look-a-likes try to break a record. The latest video and stories that will have you talking are coming up now in Take a Look At This!