DNA Test Better Than Pap

Treatment for cervical cancer entered a new phase, when a new DNA test performed better than pap test in cervical cancer patients. Experts believe that soon it may replace the Pap smear test in developed countries. The new test for HPV (human papilloma virus) would not only save lives but it could reduce the count of pap smear test for women above the age of 30. What more interesting is, DNA test is required once in three, five or ten years as compared to pap test which is done annually. Experts agree to the fact that the test would go long way in reducing cervical cancer deaths among women.

But gynecologists are wary of implementing DNA test by removing the pap test, as pap has proved to be a boon to many women for years. According to a report, there has been great reduction in cervical cancer deaths in America as it now kills less than 4,000 per year which is far less than what it was in 1950.

The implications of DNA test may differ from poorer to richer countries. While many in poorer countries still not able to get test done, and taken to hospital when it’s too late. In West, women undergo smear in which cells are taken from cervix and sent to laboratory, where inspection and assessment take long time.