Cervical Screening Programme

Risk factors for cervical cancer include infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), sexual activity at an early age, having multiple sexual partners, smoking and weakened immunity. Cervical cancer is prevented primarily by controlling the risk factors with measures such as practising safer sex, avoiding smoking and adopting healthy lifestyle. Scientifi c evidence has demonstrated that organized population-based screening is very effective in reducing cervical cancer incidence and deaths. Cervical cancer is usually preceded by abnormal changes in the cervical cells which can occur without any symptoms or pain. Cervical smear is a simple screening test that could detect these abnormal cellular changes in the cervix. With early detection, prompt and proper management, such lesion would be prevented from developing into cervical cancer.