Pap Test Guidelines

Question: Who should get a Pap test? I think I’ve seen about 20 different schedules. Isn’t there any general agreement?

Answer: A number of health organizations have agreed on the following guidelines for Pap testing:

All women who are or who have been sexually active or who are over 18 years of age should have a Pap test each year. If they have three normal test results in succession, the test may be done less often; however, annual testing should be done in all high-risk women.

Despite some problems with Pap testing, it remains the best screening tool for any cancer.