The Cervical cancer is one of the most common gynecological cancers. In 2018, 2920 new cases were identified, as well as 1117 deaths, reports Public Health France. Caused by a human papillomavirus (HPV), the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI), it is very well cared for and can even be avoided if the risk is detected early enough. This is why screening is recommended for all people with uterus and who are over 25 years old. French recommendations evolve on the detection method, indicate Public Health France (SPF), the High Authority for Health (HAS) and the National Cancer Institute (INCa).
Cervical cancer screening evolves for those over 30
Since May 2018, the cervical cancer screening works with a national organized screening program (PNDO) for all people with a uterus who are between 25 and 65 years old. The exam is 100% reimbursed. In July, French health authorities are announcing an evolution in screening. From 25 to 29 years old, it remains the same, i.e. it is carried out thanks to a cytological examination. It is carried out every three years from the moment when the first two tests carried out one year apart have revealed normal results. On the other hand, the recommendations change for those over 30 years of age. Between 30 and 65 years old, the French National Authority for Health replaces the cytological examination with the HPV test, which is more effective on people of this age group. “Unlike the cytological examination which is concerned with the morphology of cells, the HPV test seeks the presence of DNA from the high-risk HPV virus in women. These two tests are carried out by removing cells from the cervix”, that is to say by a smear, indicates SPF.
How does the HPV test work?
The examination method does not change, since the HPV test is also carried out using a smear. The difference for the patients is thatit is carried out every five years, and not every three years, from the moment when the results are good. The first must be carried out three years after the last cytological examination, the results of which were normal. It is reimbursed up to 70% by Health Insurance when it is not carried out as part of the national screening program.
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