What are the benefits and limitations of screening for cervical cancer?
Almost every test or procedure has benefits and limitations. You might think of these as pros and cons. It’s important to be aware of them before having any test so that you’re making an informed decision that’s right for you. No screening test is 100% accurate, but the scientific evidence tells us that having regular screening tests lowers the risk of dying from cervical cancer. Depending on where you live, your cervical cancer screening program might offer a Pap test or an HPV test. It’s important to know the benefits and limitations of regular cancer screening.
- Getting screened for cervical cancer reassures you if the result is normal.
- Regular cervical cancer screening may help prevent cervical cancer by finding cervical cell changes in your body that could become cancer if left untreated.
- A cervical cancer screening test helps find cervical cancer early, before you have symptoms.
- A cervical cancer screening test helps find cervical cancer before it spreads, when it is easier to treat.
- Early detection may mean less treatment and less time spent recovering.
- The earlier cervical cancer is detected, the better your chance of survival.
- A cervical cancer screening test may suggest cervical cell abnormalities when there are none (called a false positive).
- A cervical cancer screening test may not detect cervical cell abnormalities even though they are present (called a false negative).
- Some cervical cancers won’t necessarily lead to death or decreased quality of life (overdiagnosis).
- Some people with cervical abnormalities may have more tests or be treated for a condition that may never develop into cancer.
It's your decision
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