Health Education Resources
Cervical Cancer Screening Awareness
Many women today are at risk for cervical cancer. The goal for cervical cancer screening is to find cervical cell changes that may lead to cancer. Only cervical cancer has screening tests that can find this cancer early when treatment can be most effective. How often you should get screened and which tests will depend on your age and health history.
Early detection screening guidelines include:
- Pap test (also called Pap smear)
- HPV test
- Co-test, combination of HPV test with a Pap test
Make an appointment with a primary care provider to talk about your cervical cancer risk. Providers can discuss which screening is right for you.
Cervical screening recommendations by age group:
| Age 21 - 29 | Pap tests every 3 years |
| Age 30 - 65 | Pap tests every 3 years, HPV test every 5 years, or HPV/Pap co-test every 5 years |
| Age 65 and older | No screening if a series of prior tests were normal. No screening needed if not at high risk for cervical cancer |
Remember to get screened regularly, no matter which test you get.
For information on screening services, scheduling an appointment, or finding a local clinic please contact Member Services at 1.888.421.8444 (toll-free) or [email protected].