New approach in the screening program for the early detection of cervical cancer in Galicia

Abstract

Cervical cancer (CUC) is the fourth most common gynaecological malignancy worldwide, the second most common in low- and middle-income countries.                  

The human papilloma virus (HPV) is the main cause of CUU and considered a necessary but not sufficient cause for its development.

In Spain, Pap smear and HPV testing are the main screening strategies for UCC. Since the 1980s, opportunistic (on-demand) screening has been carried out in most autonomous communities by performing conventional cytology on women between 25 and 65 years of age.

The assessment of the presence of HPV infection in the early diagnosis of cervical cancer has a higher sensitivity and better predictive value than cervical cytology, especially in women over 30 years of age, with a minimal loss of specificity.

Galicia, in accordance with the new recommendations available, has established the “New Galician Program for the early detection of cervical cancer” population screening based on the detection of High Risk HPV in women between 35 and 65 years of age and is preparing to launch a pilot study, to be carried out in 2021 in the region of Lugo.

The midwife, in the Primary Health System, is emerging as the professional of reference in the prevention and early diagnosis of UCC, leading UCC screening in Spain.