Challenges in Cervical Screening

Abstract

Background: Cervical intra-epithelial neoplasia (CIN) is a pre-malignant condition of Cervix
easily detectable by a PAP smear. If left untreated CIN progresses to cervical cancer. The
objective of our study was to screen patients for CIN using PAP smear cytology & assess
usefulness of opportunistic screening. Our aim was also to encourage routine Pap Smear
screening of outdoor patients.
Methods:The study was conducted at department of Obstetrics & Gynecology Fatima Memorial
Hospital Lahore from January 2004 to March 2006. PAP smear samples of 741 patients were
analyzed for presence of CIN.
Results: Cervical dysplasia was seen in 14 patients and presence of CIN was not confirmed in
these cases.
Conclusion: PAP smear is a simple & effective screening method for detection of CIN and
prevention of cervical cancer. Considering the high incidence of cervical cancer in Pakistan,
women should be encouraged to participate in screening & have regular PAPsmears