HPV Testing: Enhanced Screening for Cervical Cancer in Women 30 Years of Age and Older – Canadian Nurses Association

Cervical cancer is one of the most common types of human papillomavirus (HPV) associated cancers diagnosed in Canada. There has been a significant decrease in the number of women diagnosed with cervical cancer (26% decline over the last 30 years) due to widespread cervical cancer screening and HPV detection. The numbers to-date confirm the positive effect of cytology testing in screening for cervical cancer but also the need for continued screening. The fundamental goal of cervical cancer screening and HPV-associated cytology testing is to prevent morbidity and mortality from cervical cancer. Understanding the link between HPV and cancer has changed how this type of cancer is detected. In fact, deaths from cervical cancer in Canada and the U.S. have declined by about 2% a year due to the widespread use of cytology testing. This program examines the role of HPV testing in cervical cancer and particularly in women 30 years of age and over.