The Frequency of Pap Smear Screening Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nan Hospital, Nan 55000, Thailand
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Abstract
Objective: To describe the frequency of Pap smear screening in mphur Mueang Amphur Phupieang, Nan province.
Study design: Survey Research
Materials and Methods: There were 811 women who attended the organized cervical cancer screening during May 1, 2011 to June 30, 2011 at the primary health care clinic in AmphurMueang and AmphurPhupieang1 Nan province. Pap smear screening frequency, categorized as no prior screening or screening at 1 of 3 discrete screening interval (every year, 2-3 times in 5 years, or 1 time in 5 years).
Results: The vast majority (93.2 %) reported having had at least one Pap smear in their lifetime. More than half (55.7%) undergo Pap smear screening annually or more often. Twenty seven percents reported being screened every 2 to 3 years and only 14.2% were being screened every 5 years. Women currently screened annually (or more often) were more likely to think that they would never stop Pap screening than those screened less frequently (6.2% [ 26/421] vs. 12.2% [ 41/335]). Only 23% of women thought the cervical cancer screening (5 year interval) recommendation was suitable for the prevention of cervical cancer. Reasons for this may be due to screening interval policy may contribute to these differences, including the long times interval screening of policy, believe that have a good health and fear of cancer.
Conclusion: The majority of Nan women report being screened for cervical cancer more frequently than recommended. Concern screening every 5 years are based on scientific evidence. This recommendation may partly explain women’s reluctance to accept less frequent screening.
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References
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