Latest news with #PapSmear
Yahoo
11-08-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Fewer Canadian women are getting Pap smears — but do they really need one? What to know about HPV testing, and why it's becoming a routine test for women
A new StatCan report found that less women in 2024 received Pap smears than they did in 2017. Here's what an expert wants you to know about the future cervical cancer screening. Less women are having Pap smears, according to new data from Statistics Canada (StatCan). In a new report released on Wednesday, the federal agency found that in 2024, 69 per cent of women aged 25 to 69 received a Pap smear test within the past three years. The number was lower than data from 2017, which found that 74 per cent of women in the same age bracket had received a Pap smear within a three year date range. The report went on to note significant differences in Pap smear tests by age group. Less women aged 50 to 69 reported having a Pap smear test (64 per cent) compared to women aged 25 to 34 (70 per cent) and 35 to 49 (75 per cent). Test rates also varied by race. Pap smear tests among Arab, South Asian and Chinese women were less than women who didn't present as a visible minority (non-racialized). This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle. Although Pap smear were once considered the most effective way to detect cervical cancer, many provinces, like Ontario British Columbia and Prince Edward Island, have been opting in favour of human paoillomavirus (HPV) testing. According to Ontario Health, HPV testing is a more accurate method for detecting cervical cancer, which means people could be tested less frequently. Quebec began a gradual transition to HPV tests in 2023 with the goal of replacing Pap smears in 2025. In July 2024, Nova Scotia announced it's intention to switch to HPV testing, but it would take approximately two years before Pap smears would be replaced. Why is an HPV test more effective than a Pap smear? In a previous interview with Yahoo Canada, Ontario-based gynecologist Dr. Kim Alexander said that roughly 95 per cent of cervical cancers are caused by HPV: "Cervical cancer is a sexually transmitted disease … so if we know your HPV status, we actually know your level of risk." With HPV testing, she added "we can actually know whether you have the virus that causes cancer. That's super powerful." Moreover, HPV testing is essentially more accurate than Pap smears, and they can now be done faster than before. The Canadian Medical Association Journal stated: "Pap testing has a high specificity of 96.8 per cent but a low sensitivity (55.4 per cent), which means that screening misses almost half of existing abnormalities." Pap test vs. HPV tests: What's the difference? A Papanicolaou test, also known as a Pap smear or Pap test, checks for abnormal cervical cells which could lead to cancer if left untreated, but they don't test for HPV itself. An HPV test, however, screens for high-risk types of HPV that could cause pre-cancers of the cervix. Neither test actually detects cancer — only abnormalities or high-risk strains of HPV. Alexander said HPV testing comes positive on average 15 years before a cancer develops. A Pap test may never become positive — even if a person has the virus. "The false rate of Pap test is in the range of 10 to 20 per cent, so we can miss things on the Pap test. ... HPV testing missing rate is close to zero. … It's very effective in determining your risk," Alexander noted. Both tests are performed by taking a swab of the cervix to obtain a sample of cervical cells which are then sent for testing. Usually, these tests are tests are performed by a doctor or nurse who may insert a speculum to open the vagina to access the cervix. Some people may feel discomfort or a slight cramp during the process and may experience light bleeding afterwards, but the swab can be obtained very quickly. What is HPV? Health Canada outlined HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the country — and worldwide. There are more than 100 types of HPV, most of which cause no symptoms and go away on their own. Some types, however, can infect areas such as the hands and feet, according to the federal agency. "Other types target the anogenital area and are transmitted during vaginal, or oral sex or during intimate skin-to-skin contact with someone who is infected," Health Canada noted. HPV causes almost all cervical cancers but is also linked to cancer of the throat, oral cavity, penis, anus, vagina or vulva. Moreover, it's possible to be infected by more than one type of HPV at a time, according to Health Canada. It estimated as many as 75 per cent of sexually active men and women will have at least one type of HPV infection in their lifetime. How to test for HPV According to Alexander, HPV testing is done in a similar way to a Pap smear, where a swab gets used to collect a small sample of cells from a cervix or vagina that may have the cancer-causing virus. In Canada, HPV testing may not be covered by a provincial or territorial health program, and people may have to pay for it out-of-pocket. Alexander described Ontario's current process: "If my patient gets a funny Pap test, I can actually call into the lab and ask them to run an HPV [test] on it. "Or, I can check a box when I submit that Pap specimen that says please run HPV at this time. ... And because we really want to get a good idea about their ongoing risk, most of my patients do agree to pay the $100 that it cost to process their HPV test," she added. How often should you get an HPV test? Because HPV testing is able to catch problems so early, Alexander said it only needs to be done every five years, in comparison with the three years recommendation of Pap smears. "The awesome thing about HPV testing is that it gives you a risk before you might even be developing a problem. ... Ideally, we're going to see that HPV test changed to negative for most people who get the virus," she explained. Alexander added 80 per cent of people will clear the virus from their body within two years, especially patients in their 20s: "Most people are not going to get cancer. For most people, the virus is going to be a minor blip in their life … but at some point as we get older, that gets more challenging." Is it too late for an HPV vaccine? Alexander said cervical cancer "is a vaccine preventable disease." The vaccine is generally available for kids in school and for people up to the age of 26, but people who are older can get it too. The HPV vaccine commonly used is the HPV9 vaccine, also known as Gardasil 9. This vaccine protects against nine different types of HPV and protects against seven types that can cause cancers of the cervix, anus, mouth and throat, penis, vagina and vulva, and two types that can cause genital warts. At-risk people include those who: Have had genital warts Have had abnormal Pap tests Have frequent new sexual partners The vaccine is also recommended for people who are in midlife too, aged 40 and up. "Doctors and non-doctors have stereotypes about who's at risk, and that married people are not at risk for acquiring the HPV virus," Alexander shared. "But midlife relationship instability is so common, like divorce, affairs and those who decide to have non-monogamous relationships, which can put people in midlife at risk." Unlike younger people who have a higher chance of clearing the virus, only 60 per cent of people in their 40s clear it within two years. "This is why midlife vaccination is something to consider ... because the virus is just there for longer, with more ability to cause problems for people," Alexander added.
Time Business News
17-07-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
Lab Testing & Drug Screening in Port Richey, FL
Lab testing and drug screening are part of many important moments in life. Whether you're monitoring your health, applying for a job, or complying with a legal process, reliable test results can bring peace of mind and clarity. In Port Richey, clinics are making the process more accessible, accurate, and respectful for every patient and organization. Let's explore what you can expect, how to prepare, and why these services matter so much. Lab tests give doctors the information they need to understand your body and how it's functioning. These tests can reveal health issues before symptoms appear, monitor how a condition is progressing, or check how well a treatment is working. Routine lab work is often part of annual exams, but it's also used in managing long-term health conditions like high cholesterol, thyroid disorders, or diabetes. In some cases, these tests are essential for early diagnosis, which can lead to better outcomes. Here are several tests frequently ordered by healthcare providers in Port Richey: CBC (Complete Blood Count): Evaluates red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, and platelets. Evaluates red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, and platelets. BMP (Basic Metabolic Panel): Measures glucose, calcium, and kidney function. Measures glucose, calcium, and kidney function. Lipid Panel: Checks for cholesterol levels and heart disease risk. Checks for cholesterol levels and heart disease risk. A1C: Measures average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months. Measures average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months. Thyroid Tests (TSH, T4): Evaluates how well your thyroid is functioning. Evaluates how well your thyroid is functioning. Liver Function Tests: Identifies signs of inflammation or liver damage. Identifies signs of inflammation or liver damage. hCG Test: Used to detect pregnancy or related concerns. Used to detect pregnancy or related concerns. Pap Smear: Screens for cervical abnormalities and early signs of cancer. Screens for cervical abnormalities and early signs of cancer. PSA Test: Monitors prostate health in men. These tests offer a deep look into different aspects of your body's health and help providers tailor your care accordingly. Drug testing is required in many situations—from employment to court compliance to addiction recovery. These tests promote safety, transparency, and trust whether at the workplace, in a legal program, or during medical treatment. Clinics in Port Richey offer a variety of testing formats to fit your needs and ensure your experience is smooth and confidential. Several different testing options are available depending on the need: Urine Drug Testing: Standard 5-panel or 10-panel tests to detect various substances. Standard 5-panel or 10-panel tests to detect various substances. Breath Alcohol Testing: Confirms alcohol levels in real-time. Confirms alcohol levels in real-time. Oral Fluid Testing: A less invasive method used in specific settings. A less invasive method used in specific settings. Hair Follicle Testing: Tracks long-term substance use, often for legal purposes. Tracks long-term substance use, often for legal purposes. Random Drug Screens: Used in workplaces or legal settings to ensure ongoing compliance. Used in workplaces or legal settings to ensure ongoing compliance. Pre-Employment and Post-Accident Tests: Help employers maintain a safe and responsible workplace. Clinics collect the sample on-site and then send it to a certified lab for detailed analysis, keeping everything efficient and consistent. These services aren't limited to patients. A wide range of clients use testing services to help with health, safety, and compliance. They include: Employers conducting pre-employment and random drug tests Human resource departments developing workplace policies Rehabilitation centers monitoring patients in recovery Probation or parole officers needing regular testing for clients Child welfare agencies ensuring safe environments for children Patients managing ongoing medical conditions Each client depends on accurate results and respectful service, no matter the reason for the test. One of the most appreciated features in Port Richey clinics is in-house sample collection. You don't need to go to another lab, wait in a separate line, or schedule multiple appointments. Everything happens in one location—making the process less stressful and more efficient. Whether it's a urine sample, blood draw, or swab, the sample is handled by trained professionals and sent to a trusted lab partner for analysis. Getting ready for your appointment doesn't have to be complicated. Just keep the following in mind: Bring a valid photo ID Have any paperwork from your doctor, employer, or legal office ready Ask in advance whether fasting is required Drink water before your appointment, especially for urine or blood tests Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to complete any paperwork Let the staff know about medications or supplements you're taking These small steps help ensure a smoother experience and more accurate results. Once your sample is processed, results are typically available within a few days. If the testing is medical, your provider will review the results with you and answer any questions. If it's part of employment or legal compliance, the results are sent directly to the designated agency or employer. Clear explanations and quick access to your results are essential, especially when decisions depend on them. Testing doesn't have to feel cold or clinical. Port Richey providers work to create an environment where each person is treated with care and respect. Whether you're a parent getting tested before a new job or someone managing a chronic illness, you'll find that the experience is handled with professionalism and compassion. How long do lab results take? Most lab test results are available within 24 to 72 hours, depending on the type of test and processing time. Can I walk in for a drug test, or do I need an appointment? Some clinics allow walk-ins, but it's a good idea to call ahead or schedule online to avoid waiting. Do I need to fast before my test? Fasting is often required for blood sugar and cholesterol tests. Your provider or the clinic staff will give you specific instructions. Will my drug test results be kept private? Yes. Results are shared only with authorized individuals or organizations based on your reason for testing. What happens if I'm taking prescription medication during a drug test? Let the staff know about any medications you are taking. This helps them interpret results correctly and avoid confusion. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
