by
Heather Mayer, DOTmed News Reporter | June 15, 2010
"To me, this indicates that those providers are unfamiliar with the use of the HPV test as part of the screening," said Saraiya. "They need more information on how to use the HPV test."
Because a negative HPV test indicates a very low chance of high-grade diseases, it is a good test for reassurance, Saraiya said.
Better safe than sorry?
In many cases, being thorough and cautious can be a good thing. But when it comes to cervical cancer screening, unnecessary testing is expensive and could lead to health hazards.
The HPV test is about $50, plus a $10 to $20 Pap test, which adds up annually, said Saraiya.
"Cost effectiveness models suggest that the practice patterns we found in our study are likely to increase costs with little improvement in reducing cervical cancer incidence and increasing survival," according to the report.
But not only is unnecessary testing expensive, it can be harmful to a woman's health. Some tests may result in false positives, causing undue anxiety. And follow-up tests can lead to problems, including adverse birth outcomes in young women.
The risk of cervical cancer goes up at age 30, which is why testing is recommended more frequently, but not necessarily annually once a woman reaches 30. Abnormal cells in younger women can, in most cases, right themselves.
"HPV testing is not recommended as a screening tool in women under 30," said Saraiya. "Most likely, women [under 30] will test positive for HPV, but it will disappear in a year."
Soper pointed out that the best way for providers to confidently follow the recommendations is to be well-read and understand that over-testing can be harmful, and why most women won't need annual screening.
Saraiya said she and her team want women and clinicians to take away from this report that annual screening in low-risk women -- normal Pap results and under age 30 -- can do more harm than good, and the tests should be used appropriately.
"Over-screening or more tests carry risks. They're not always a reassurance," she said. "Women should feel comfortable asking providers key questions related to Pap and HPV testing."
Back to HCB News
