British Columbia is transitioning to test for cervical cancer through HPV screening, meaning patients will be able to provide samples from home and ultimately test less often if their results are negative.
Cervical cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells in the cervix start to grow uncontrollably, forming tumours, according to HealthLink B.C., the province’s online health and wellness resource. A Pap test, or Pap smear, is currently used to detect such abnormal cells.
Approximately 70 per cent of all cervical cancer is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), meaning it can be prevented through vaccination and screening.
Leading health organizations believe HPV-based screening
