Cervical screening
Cervical Screening
Cervical screening (pronounced: /ˈsɜːrvɪkəl ˈskriːnɪŋ/), also known as a smear test or Pap test, is a method of detecting abnormal (pre-cancerous and cancerous) cells in the cervix. The primary goal of cervical screening is to prevent cervical cancer by detecting early abnormalities that could lead to the development of cancer if left untreated.
Etymology
The term "cervical" refers to the cervix, the lower, narrow end of the uterus that connects the uterus to the vagina. "Screening" in medical context refers to the process of identifying healthy people who may be at increased risk of a disease or condition.
Procedure
Cervical screening involves collecting cells from the cervix for microscopic examination. The procedure is usually performed by a healthcare professional during a routine pelvic examination. The cells are then sent to a laboratory where they are examined under a microscope to identify any abnormalities.
Related Terms
- Cervix: The lower, narrow end of the uterus that connects the uterus to the vagina.
- Cervical Cancer: A type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix.
- Pap Test: A procedure to test for cervical cancer in women, which involves collecting cells from the cervix.
- Pelvic Examination: A physical examination of the female pelvic organs.
Importance
Cervical screening is an important part of a woman's routine healthcare. It can detect changes in the cervix before they turn into cancer. If detected early, cervical cancer is one of the most successfully treatable cancers.
Risks and Limitations
While cervical screening is an effective method for detecting cervical cancer, it is not foolproof. It may not always detect abnormalities, and in some cases, it may indicate a problem when there is none (false-positive result).
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cervical screening
- Wikipedia's article - Cervical screening
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