Screening test prevents cervical cancer

The cervical cancer it was for many years the first cause of cancer death in Mexico. As of 2006 he was displaced by breast cancer. The most recent mortality data are from 2008, where there are 14.3% deaths due to CaCu, which are one hundred thousand women older than 25 years. It is currently the second leading cause of death in women due to cancer.

Traditionally, the cervical cytology test or cervical cytology test has been used for decades. Papanicolaou However, at present there is a great development in the matter. Since the early 80's it is known that the human papilloma virus is associated with cervical cancer, and as a result of this problem the Pap test and the hybrid take test , which identifies the virus through nucleic acids (DNA) and can tell if a person is infected.

The hybrid capture test is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration of the United States, and in Mexico it is supported by the Cofepris. This test detects a total of 13 types of HPV High risk and identifies women who are at higher risk of developing cervical lesions or cancer. The test has a sensitivity of 98% for high-grade cervical lesions and cancer, according to data from the Ministry of Health.

The process involves the introduction of a small tube with a brush that takes samples from the inside of the vagina, specifically the neck of the uterus . After taking the sample, it is sent to a laboratory for analysis. "It's a very easy test because it just takes cells from the cervix" indicates for GetQoralHealth , Dr. Prudencia Perón, Deputy Director General of Reproductive Health of the Ssa.

The hybrid capture test is done in women from 35 to 64 years of age. That is, women who, due to the natural history of the disease, present a greater risk of presenting a infection persistent. Dr. Perón points out that cancer takes many years to develop. When the test is done to women over 35 years old, it is possible that an injury already exists and it could be more effective in the treatment.

The screening tests of cervical cancer are frequent in Mexico, and the Ministry of Health applies them to thousands of apparently healthy women, in order to identify those who are at risk of suffering from this pathology.

"Women should not die because of this cause, because they have proof to avoid it. Studies show that a single test in your life, can decrease between 25 and 36% the risk of cancer . It is important to be aware that it is a right to health that is available. All the clinics of the Ssa have it and if not, their service should be demanded, "said the specialist.