Pap Test and Cervical Cancer Prevention
The Pap test is one of the most effective tools for the prevention and early detection of cervical cancer. In addition to screening for human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and identifying high-risk carcinogenic genotypes, the Pap test plays a vital role in spotting abnormal cervical cells before they develop into cancer.
Since its introduction into medical practice more than half a century ago—after being discovered by Dr. George Papanicolaou in 1928—the Pap test has proven to be life-saving. Regular screening has reduced cervical cancer mortality by over 75% worldwide.
By detecting changes early, the Pap test gives women the opportunity to receive timely treatment and significantly lowers the risk of developing cervical cancer.
What is the Pap Test?
The Pap test, also known as the cervico-vaginal cytological examination, is a simple procedure that analyzes a sample of cells (smear) collected from the surface of the cervix. Its main goal is to detect abnormal or atypical cervical cells.
While some of these cellular changes may resolve on their own, others can progress to cervical cancer if left untreated. This is why early detection is crucial.
In addition, the Pap test can also help identify signs of infections in the cervical area.
The procedure is painless, quick, and non-invasive, making it an essential part of preventive women’s health care.
Types of Pap Tests
There are two main methods for performing a Pap test:
- Conventional Pap test
- Liquid-based Pap test
Liquid-Based Pap Test
In this method, the sample is placed in a liquid medium, which can then be used for both cytological analysis and, if needed, HPV testing from the same collection.
The liquid-based Pap test offers several advantages:
- Reduces the possibility that the sample will be considered unsatisfactory for interpretation, lowering the chance that a repeat test will be needed.
- Allows simultaneous testing of the same sample for the presence of high-risk HPV genotypes.
Conventional (Classic) Pap Test
After collection in the clinic, the sample is immediately placed on a glass slide and fixed. This method does not allow simultaneous testing for high-risk HPV strains in the same sample, but it remains just as effective as liquid-based testing for detecting abnormal cells.
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Address
132 Jacques-Bizard Boulevard
L'Île-Bizard (Québec) H9C 2T9
Opening Hours
Sunday: 10:00 - 12:00
Monday - Friday: 9:00 - 17:00
Saturday: closed
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AP-2101691