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A Pap smear, also known as a Pap test, is a screening test for cervical cancer that involves collecting a sample of cells from the cervix to check for any abnormal changes that could indicate the presence of cervical cancer or pre-cancerous conditions.

In addition to the traditional Pap test, which only looks for abnormal cell changes, many healthcare providers now also recommend HPV testing as part of routine cervical cancer screening. HPV (human papillomavirus) is a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause abnormal changes in the cervix and lead to cervical cancer.

During an HPV test, a sample of cells is collected from the cervix and tested for the presence of the virus. In some cases, an HPV test may be done in conjunction with a Pap test, using the same sample of cells.

The American Cancer Society recommends that women begin regular Pap and HPV testing at age 25, and that women ages 25 to 65 undergo testing every three years. Women over age 65 who have had regular screenings with normal results may be able to stop screening altogether. However, it’s important to note that screening recommendations may vary depending on a person’s medical history and other risk factors, and it’s best to discuss screening with a healthcare provider.

– American Cancer Society

It’s also important to note that a positive HPV test does not mean a person has cancer or will develop cancer, but it does indicate an increased risk for cervical cancer and may prompt further testing or monitoring. A Pap smear and HPV test can help detect cervical cancer in its early stages when it is most treatable, so it’s important to keep up with regular screening appointments as recommended by a healthcare provider.

CO-PAP

A Co-Pap is a screening strategy for cervical cancer that involves both a Pap smear and an HPV test in certain age groups. For example, the American Cancer Society recommends co-pap testing for women ages 30 to 65, with screening every five years for women who have normal results on both tests.

The advantage of co-pap testing is that it can help detect cervical cancer in its early stages when it is most treatable, and can also identify women at higher risk for cervical cancer due to the presence of HPV. However, it’s important to note that screening recommendations may vary depending on a person’s medical history, risk factors, and other factors, and it’s best to discuss screening with a healthcare provider.