Low uptake of Pap test as a cervical cancer screen among Saudi women: Findings from a national survey.

OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to assess the current knowledge and uptake of Papanicolaou (Pap) tests for cervical screening among Saudi women, including barriers to undergoing the test and the availability of related services. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a health questionnaire administered through the Absher portal between April 1, 2019, and March 31, 2020. The questionnaire consisted of five questions and took less than 5 min to complete. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed to analyze demographic variables, and chi-square tests were used to examine the association between these variables and Pap test uptake. RESULTS: The questionnaire included 8194 Saudi women, with the majority from Makkah (24.40%), Riyadh (21.92%), and Eastern (14.44%) regions. Only 22.52% of respondents had ever received a Pap test, and among them, 17.48% did so based on their physician's recommendation. Private clinics accounted for 10.73% of Pap test locations, while public clinics accounted for 8.97%. The primary reasons for not undergoing the test were lack of knowledge regarding its importance (40.24%) and lack of information from physicians (16.96%). Knowledge of the Pap test as a cervical screening method was significantly associated with marital status, Saudi region, and age group. CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed low awareness of the Pap test for cervical screening among Saudi women, particularly in younger age groups. Targeted educational initiatives are essential to increase awareness and emphasize the significance of regular screenings, especially among younger individuals, to enhance early detection and reduce the burden of cervical cancer in Saudi Arabia.

Cervical cancer screening barriers and facilitators from the perspectives of women with a history of criminal-legal system involvement and substance use.

BACKGROUND: The wide availability of routine screening with Papanicolaou (Pap) tests and vaccinations against human papillomavirus has resulted in a decline in rates of cervical cancer. As with other diseases, however, disparities in incidence and mortality persist. Cervical cancer, is found more often, at later stages, and has worse outcomes in people who live in rural areas, identify as Black or Hispanic, and in people who are incarcerated. Studies report 4-5 times higher rates of cervical cancer incidence in people detained in jails and prisons than in community-based samples. Studies to explain cervical cancer differences have been inconclusive, though there is broad consensus that issues of access play a role. In this study, we sought to learn more from people who have a history of criminal-legal system involvement and substance use about what barriers and facilitators they perceive in accessing cervical cancer preventive health and other support services in the community. RESULTS: We conducted semi-structured interviews with open-ended questions by telephone with 20 self-identified women, ages 22-58, in Birmingham, Alabama. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed and the transcripts analyzed using immersion-crystallization techniques. Our team identified two main themes, making connections: the importance of interpersonal communication, which stressed barriers and facilitators related to what makes for effective and humanistic interactions in cervical health prevention and other services, and getting it done: the logistics of access and availability, which highlighted elements of cost and payment; scheduling; transportation; and clinic policies. CONCLUSIONS: People with a history of criminal-legal system involvement and substance abuse meet with a variety of enabling and impeding factors at personal and interpersonal as well as systemic levels in obtaining cervical health services. To better ensure that women in this high-risk group have equitable access to cervical cancer prevention and treatment-and thus better cancer outcomes-will require multilevel efforts that include an emphasis on improving the human connection in health care encounters and improving the nuts-and-bolts logistics related to accessing that care.

Enhancing Cervical Cancer Screening: Review of p16/Ki-67 Dual Staining as a Promising Triage Strategy.

Cervical cancer, primarily caused by high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) types 16 and 18, is a major global health concern. Persistent HR-HPV infection can progress from reversible precancerous lesions to invasive cervical cancer, which is driven by the oncogenic activity of human papillomavirus (HPV) genes, particularly E6 and E7. Traditional screening methods, including cytology and HPV testing, have limited sensitivity and specificity. This review explores the application of p16/Ki-67 dual-staining cytology for cervical cancer screening. This advanced immunocytochemical method allows for simultaneously detecting p16 and Ki-67 proteins within cervical epithelial cells, offering a more specific approach for triaging HPV-positive women. Dual staining and traditional methods are compared, demonstrating their high sensitivity and negative predictive value but low specificity. The increased sensitivity of dual staining results in higher detection rates of CIN2+ lesions, which is crucial for preventing cervical cancer progression. However, its low specificity may lead to increased false-positive results and unnecessary biopsies. The implications of integrating dual staining into contemporary screening strategies, particularly considering the evolving landscape of HPV vaccination and changes in HPV genotype prevalence, are also discussed. New guidelines and further research are necessary to elucidate the long-term effects of integrating dual staining into screening protocols.

Socioeconomic disparities in Papanicolaou test utilization in Western Iran.

BACKGROUND: Cervical cancer remains the fourth most frequently diagnosed cancer among women, and its impact is particularly significant in women residing in less developed countries. This study aims to assess socioeconomic inequality in using Papanicolaou tests, commonly known as Pap tests, which are crucial for detecting cervical cancer. The research also seeks to decompose this inequality, identifying its contributing factors. This investigation is conducted within a sizable population-based study focused on the Kurdish population, with an additional examination of potential variations between urban and rural areas. METHOD: The study utilized baseline data from the Ravansar Non-Communicable Disease Cohort Study (RaNCD), involving 3,074 ever-married women aged 35-65. Asset data was employed to determine socioeconomic status (SES), and Principal Component Analysis was applied. The uptake of Papanicolaou tests was assessed for inequality using the Concentration Index (Cn). Additionally, decomposition analysis was conducted to identify and understand the factors contributing to socioeconomic inequality. RESULTS: The study found that overall, 86% of women reported having undergone cervical cancer screening at least once in their lifetime. The Concentration Index (Cn) for the total population was 0.21 (p < 0.0001), indicating a higher concentration of Papanicolaou test uptake among wealthier groups. In urban areas, the Cn was 0.34 (p < 0.0001), reflecting a significant concentration among the rich. However, in rural areas, the Cn was -0.10 (p = 0.3006), suggesting no significant socioeconomic inequality. Factors such as socioeconomic status (SES), education, and age contributed to reducing inequality, explaining 62.7%, 36.0%, and 1.7% of the observed inequality, respectively. Interestingly, place of residence had a negative influence on inequality. CONCLUSION: The uptake of Papanicolaou tests varies across different socioeconomic status levels, with a higher concentration among wealthier groups. The results enable health policymakers and researchers to tailor health intervention toward increasing public awareness, especially among women with lower levels of education women in economically deprived groups.

Knowledge of cervical cancer screening among Omani women attending a university teaching hospital: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVES: To assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding cervical cancer and Pap smear screening among Omani women attending a tertiary clinic in Muscat, Oman, and to establish correlations with selected sociodemographic factors. METHODS: An observational, cross-sectional study was carried out among Omani women aged 18-50 years old attending the outpatient clinic of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, from October 2019 to February 2020. A validated Arabic-language questionnaire was utilized to collect data regarding the participants' sociodemographic characteristics, their knowledge of cervical cancer and related risk factors, and their knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to cervical cancer screening and Pap smear testing. RESULTS: Of the 380 respondents, 86 and 55% had previously heard of cervical cancer and Pap smear testing, respectively; however, only 26% were knowledgeable concerning these topics. Knowledge scores were significantly associated with various sociodemographic factors, including marital status and a previous awareness of cervical cancer (odds ratio: > 1, p < 0.05). Only 21% had themselves previously undergone Pap smear testing; however, 75% reported being willing to undergo such screening in future. CONCLUSIONS: Knowledge regarding cervical cancer-related risk factors and Pap smear screening was poor among a cohort of Omani women attending a tertiary clinic in Muscat, Oman. This may play a role in the increased frequency of cervical cancer cases observed in Oman over recent years. As such, a well-structured public education program is recommended to raise awareness of this issue.

Our experience diagnosing 225 patients with cervical glandular lesions: current technologies, lessons learned, and areas for improvement.

OBJECTIVE: To explore the relative sensitivity of different methods for detecting cervical glandular lesions. METHODS: A total of 225 patients with cervical glandular lesions diagnosed from January 2018 to February 2023 were retrieved from the pathology database of Guangdong Maternal and Child Health Hospital, and their clinicopathological features were reviewed. RESULTS: Four human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes: HPV18, 16, 45, and 52, dominated all glandular lesions, and accounting for 74.10% of HPV-positive tumors. Furthermore, 36.89% of abnormal squamous cells were diagnosed as abnormal based on cytological examinations leading to the detection of cervical glandular lesions; only 16.89% were diagnosed based on the initial detection of abnormal glandular cytology. The most common abnormal cervical screening result was ASC-US on cytology (14.22%), followed by HSIL (11.56%). Only few number of patients were diagnosed with or suspected of having cervical adenopathy via a Pap test (18.22%). Nearly one-third of cervical glandular lesions cases were not detected on the Pap test; but were diagnosed upon cervical biopsy or based on the histological examination of ECC, LEEP, or CKC specimens. The LEEP or CKC biopsy specimens had negative margins in 49 cases (40.83%), while the margins were positive in the other 71 cases (59.17%). Five cases (10.20%) with negative margins still had residual lesions following total hysterectomy, and 19 (26.76%) with positive margins had no residual lesions after total hysterectomy. CONCLUSION: The ability to detect cervical glandular lesions varies for routine HPV genotyping, Pap test, or biopsy/ECC, with different sensitivities and advantages and disadvantages for each method.

Predictive Value of Various Atypical Cells for the Detection of Human Papillomavirus in Cervical Smears.

It is thought that numerous genotypes of human papillomavirus (HPV) are associated with various atypical cells, such as multinucleated cells, koilocytes, binucleated cells, parakeratotic cells, and giant cells, in the cervix. We previously showed the specificity of HPV genotypes for koilocytes and multinucleated cells. Therefore, in this study, we analyzed the association among HPV genotypes and binucleated cells, parakeratotic cells, and giant cells in Papanicolaou (Pap) smears. We detected HPV genotypes and atypical cells in 651 cases of liquid-based cytology with an abnormal Pap smear. The HPV genotypes associated with atypical cells were evaluated using stepwise logistic regression with backward elimination and a likelihood ratio test for model construction. Polymerase chain reaction was used to determine the HPV genotypes in whole liquid-based cytology samples and microdissected cell samples from Pap smear slides. Binucleated cells were significantly associated with HPV genotype 42. Moreover, parakeratotic cells were significantly associated with certain HPV genotypes, such as HPV40. However, it was difficult to detect specific HPV genotypes by the manual microdissection-polymerase chain reaction method despite the presence of binucleated cells and parakeratotic cells. Thus, the presence of binucleated cells, parakeratotic cells, and giant cells in Pap smears may not be predictive of cervical lesions above low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions or infection with highly carcinogenic HPV genotypes.

Predictors of non-adherence to cervical cancer screening among immigrant women in Ontario, Canada.

Cervical cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among women and is largely preventable with regular screening using Papanicolau (Pap) tests. In Canada, all provinces have regular screening programs, although with slightly differing recommendations. Previous research has found that immigrant women, who are a large proportion of the Canadian population, are at higher risk of being under-screened, or non-adherent to the recommended screening frequency. Using data from the 2017 Canadian Community Health Survey, this study examined: (1) the extent to which immigration status and time since immigration are associated with Pap test adherence in Ontario, and (2) predictors of Pap test adherence for immigrants and Canadian born populations in Ontario, Canada's most populous province, with a focus on the role of racial or ethnic identity among immigrants. Estimates of 3-year test adherence were 71.3 % (95 %CI: 66.9-75.7) among immigrant women and 75.4 % (95 %CI: 73.1-77.1) among non-immigrant women. Recent immigrants (6-10 years in Canada) had lower adherence (63.5 %, 95 %CI: 48.0-80.0). Logistic regression models found that immigrant women had lower adherence than Canadian-born women, controlling for age, household income, education, and having a primary care physician. Subgroup analysis found that South Asian immigrant women were least likely to be adherent. These results support targeted programming to increase screening adherence among recent immigrants and raise concerns regarding potential barriers to screening. Data that allow better disaggregation of racial and ethnic identities are important for better understanding the potential implications of these patterns for racial inequities in health.

Implementation rate and related factors of confirmatory tests following an abnormal Pap smear: a nationwide study from the National Health Insurance.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate the implementation rate and influencing factors of confirmatory tests for women with abnormal cervical cytology results in the Korean nationwide cervical cancer screening program. METHODS: The National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) database was utilized to identify all Korean women who have participated in the Korean nationwide cervical cancer screening program from January 2011 and December 2021 using the NHIS database. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to estimate the multivariate odds ratio and evaluate the patients' characteristics. RESULTS: The rate of abnormal Papanicolaou (Pap) smears showed an initial increase from 2011 to 2015 and subsequently reached a plateau after 2016. When examining specific subcategories, cases of atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US) increased from 28,546 cases (1.1%) in 2011 to 62,850 cases (1.7%) in 2021. In contrast, cases of HSIL and SCC declined from 3,535 cases (0.14%) to 2,763 cases (0.07%) and from 383 cases (0.01%) to 179 cases (0.005%), respectively. Furthermore, the implementation rate of confirmatory tests for women with abnormal cytology increased from 8,865 cases (21.0%) in 2011 to 39,045 cases (51.2%) in 2021. Regarding the specific subcategory of ASC-US, the number of confirmatory tests exhibited a substantial increase from 4,101 cases (14.4%) in 2011 to 30,482 cases (48.5%) in 2021. For SCC, there was no significant change, with 216 cases (56.4%) in 2011 and 102 cases (57.0%) in 2021. The implementation rate of confirmatory tests was found to be significantly associated with results of abnormal Pap smear, age, and residence. Notably, economic status did not emerge as a significant factor affecting the likelihood of undergoing confirmatory tests. CONCLUSIONS: The severity of abnormal Pap smear results is a reliable indicator of the probability of undergoing a confirmatory test. Additional endeavors are required to improve the implementation rate among women who have received abnormal Pap smear results.

Self-reported participation in cervical cancer screening among Polish women in 2004-2019.

OBJECTIVES: We aimed to assess self-reported participation in cervical cancer screening among Polish women between 2004 and 2019 and to identify the groups with the lowest participation rate. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Data on declared participation in cervical cancer screening were obtained from the European Health Interview Survey from 2004 to 2019. RESULTS: In 2019, 86.7% of Polish women aged ≥ 15 years declared that they had ever undergone a Pap test. Compared to 2004, the coverage of ever-screened women improved by 16.6 percentage points. The proxy population coverage was 72.9%. The highest proportion of women who underwent a Pap smear in the last three years was observed among those aged 35-44 years and 25-34 years (84.0% and 83.2%, respectively), and the lowest among women aged ≥ 75 years (20.5%). The proportion screened within the last three years also varied by education (up to lower secondary education 26.4%, up to post-secondary non-tertiary education 62.8%, and the highest level of education 83.7%), urbanization (large cities 66.7%, suburbs, and smaller cities 62.8%, and rural areas 59.0%), income (poorest households 42.5%, wealthiest households 70.6%), and declared health status (best 68.9%, worst 41.4%). The lowest participation in screening was observed in the southeastern regions and the highest in the northwestern regions of Poland. CONCLUSIONS: In Poland, in 2019, the approximate coverage of cervical cancer screening was high compared to other European countries and has improved over the last 15 years. A complete screening registry is required to confirm questionnaire-based self-reported data. Targeted interventions should be implemented to address low participation in the identified regions and socioeconomic groups.

Underestimated Cervical Cancer among Women over 65 Years Old: Is It Time to Revise the Screening Target Age Group? / Câncer cervical subestimado entre mulheres com mais de 65 anos: É hora de rever a faixa etária alvo do rastreamento?

Abstract Objective To compare cytological and histological results from women > 64 years old who followed the Brazilian national cervical cancer screening guidelines with those who did not. Methods The present observational retrospective study analyzed 207 abnormal cervical smear results from women > 64 years old in a mid-sized city in Brazil over 14 years. All results were reported according to the Bethesda System. The women were divided into those who followed the screening guidelines and those who did not. Results Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance and low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion cytology results were found in 128 (62.2%) cases. Of these, 112 (87.5%) had repeated cytology with positive results. The other 79 (38.1%) with abnormal results should have been referred to colposcopy and biopsy. Out of 41 (51.9%) biopsied women, 23 (29.1%) had a confirmed diagnosis of neoplasia or precursor lesion. In contrast, among the 78 (37.7%) biopsied patients, 40 (51.3%) followed the guideline recommendations, with 9 (22.5%) positive biopsies. Of the 38 (48.7%) women who did not follow the guidelines, there were 24 (63.1%) positive results. Women who did not follow the guidelines demonstrated higher chances of cancer and precursor lesions (odds ratio [OR]: 5.904; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.188-15.932; p = 0.0002). Conclusion Women > 64 years old who did not follow the national screening protocol showed significant differences in the frequency of abnormal results and severity of diagnosis compared with those who followed the protocol.

Resumo Objetivo Comparar os resultados citológicos e histológicos de mulheres > 64 anos que seguiram as diretrizes nacionais brasileiras de rastreamento do câncer do colo do útero com aquelas que não as seguiram. Método O presente estudo observacional retrospectivo analisou 207 resultados anormais de esfregaço cervical de mulheres > 64 anos de idade em uma cidade de médio porte no Brasil durante 14 anos. Todos os resultados foram relatados de acordo com o Sistema Bethesda. As mulheres foram divididas entre as que seguiram as diretrizes de rastreamento e as que não o fizeram. Resultados Resultados citológicos com células escamosas atípicas de significado indeterminado e lesão intraepitelial escamosa de baixo grau foram encontrados em 128 (62,2%) casos. Destes, 112 (87,5%) repetiram a citologia com resultados positivos. Os outros 79 (38,1%) com resultados anormais deveriam ter sido encaminhados para colposcopia e biópsia. Das 41 (51,9%) mulheres biopsiadas, 23 (29,1%) tiveram diagnóstico confirmado de neoplasia ou lesão precursora. Em contrapartida, entre as 78 (37,7%) pacientes biopsiadas, 40 (51,3%) seguiram as recomendações da diretriz, com 9 (22,5%) biópsias positivas. Entre as 38 (48,7%) mulheres que não seguiram as orientações, houve 24 (63,1%) resultados positivos. As mulheres que não seguiram as diretrizes demonstraram maiores chances de câncer e lesões precursoras (odds ratio [OR]: 5,904; intervalo de confiança [IC] de 95%: 2,188-15,932; p = 0,0002). Conclusão Mulheres > 64 anos que não seguiram a diretriz nacional de rastreamento apresentaram diferenças significativas na frequência de resultados anormais e gravidade do diagnóstico em comparação com aquelas que seguiram a diretriz.

Acesso e utilização da atenção ginecológica na atenção primária a saúde: percepção do homem transexual / Access and use of gynecological care in primary health care: perception of transgender men

Investigar a percepção do homem transexual sobre acesso e utilização da atenção ginecológica em serviços da Atenção Primária à Saúde no SUS. Estudo qualitativo e descritivo. A população foi de cinco participantes; todos homens trans, residentes em municípios do estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil. A coleta de dados foi realizada por meio de entrevistas virtuais, entre o final de 2021 e início de 2022. Para análise dos dados obtidos, a técnica de Bardin foi utilizada. O desrespeito e o despreparo dos profissionais de saúde no atendimento foram indicados em todas as entrevistas, dificultando o acesso à saúde da população LGBTQIAP+. Baixa procura da população trans pelo serviço de saúde por receio e medo de (re)viver experiências traumatizantes indica que o enfermeiro de serviços de Atenção Primária à Saúde necessita desenvolver conhecimento e habilidades para acolher a população transexual, a fim de garantir humanização do atendimento.

To investigate the perception of transgender men of access and use of gynecological care in Primary Health Care services in SUS. A qualitative, descriptive study. A population of five participants, all transgender men, living in cities of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Data collection occurred via online interviews between late 2021 and early 2022. To analyze data, the Bardin technique was used. The lack of respect and preparation of health professionals in service were mentioned in all interviews. This hindered access of the LGBTQIAP+ population. Low demand from the transgender population for health services due to dread and fear of (re)experiencing traumatizing situations suggests that the Primary Health Care services professional must build knowledge and skills to welcome the transgender population in order to guarantee humanized services.

Use of grape-based stain (Vinatela) on cervical cytology: A Peruvian validation study.

Objectives: The Papanicolaou's (Pap's) stain is used for cervical cancer screening. It employs toxic-carcinogenic expensive reagents, which may not be easily accessible to many communities worldwide. The objective of this study was to validate the grape-based alcohol-extracted dye (Vinatela) on normal cervical samples for the Pap test. Material and Methods: Samples of the two grape species were collected from two vineyards through the Agroindustrial Research Institute of Universidad Privada San Juan Bautista. The dye extraction from the grape species and the dye performance to stain cells were conducted in three phases: (a) direct staining with pre-fermentation wine products, (b) direct fragmentation of grapes and direct staining with shells of the grapes, and (c) alcoholic extraction of the dye. Vinatela obtained from two species (Vitis vinifera "Tempranillo" and "Malbec") and posterior staining of cervical samples. We conducted a double-blind validation on 30 cervical samples. Results: The basophilic components of the cervical cells were stained. Alcoholic extraction staining protocol had a low yield. The nuclear and cytoplasmic borders, the nuclear details, and the polymorphonuclear nuclei were stained with Vinatela and could be differentiated during nuclear coloration. The initial staining protocol was 10- 20 min × (mean ~12 min) staining time. We noted a slightly better staining with V. v. Tempranillo as compared to V. v. Malbec (P = 0.045). Conclusion: Cervical cells stained with Vinatela stain from two grape species cultivated in the Southern of Peru, showed basophilic nuclear details.

Usefulness of the human papillomavirus DNA chip test as a complementary method for cervical cytology.

Objectives: As a convenient and economical method of screening cervical cancer and precancerous pathologies, the Papanicolaou smear (Pap smear) has been most widely used. Nevertheless, it requires cytological changes for making diagnoses and reportedly has a high false-negative rate. In this study, the usefulness of the human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA chip test as a complementary method that can compensate for the defect of the Pap smear was investigated. Material and Methods: Of the 6516 patients who simultaneously underwent a Pap smear and an HPV DNA chip test at Chonnam National University Hospital between January 2015 and December 2016, 1897, an initial PAP smear-negative patients who had undergone an additional Pap smear during their 2-year follow-up period were selected for this study. Of the subject patients, 281 underwent a cervical biopsy. Results: The Pap smear follow-up of an initial Pap smear-negative subjects showed 53 (75.7%) HPV high-risk positive cases in the cytology low-grade lesion group (70 cases) and 46 (97.8%) HPV high-risk positive cases in the cytology high-grade lesion group (47 cases). The 281 biopsy cases included 67 biopsy low-grade lesion cases and 74 biopsy high-grade lesion cases, of which there were 45 (67.2%) and 67 (90.5%) HPV high-risk positive cases, respectively. The follow-up cytology on the high-risk HPV-positive subjects showed that the ratio of their high-grade lesions was 260.8 times greater than that of the high-risk HPV-negative subjects (OR = 260.8 and 95% CI: 36.1 and 1886.1); and their biopsy showed that the ratio of their high-grade lesions was 102.7 times greater than that of the HPV-negative subjects (OR = 102.7 and 95% CI: 14.0 and 753.3). Conclusion: The complementary use of the HPV DNA chip test may be useful in increasing the accuracy of screening examinations for the early diagnosis of uterine cervix cancer when combined with the Pap smear.

The impact of transformation zone representation on the frequency of abnormal cervical cytological results.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the frequency of abnormal cervical cytological results with and without representation of the transformation zone (TZ) in a medium-sized city in Brazil according to the Bethesda categorization. METHODS: We performed an analytical observational study evaluating cytological results over 15 years from conventional smears collected within the Public Brazilian Health System in Araçatuba, Brazil. Tests were stratified by age and cytological result according to Brazilian guidelines and the Bethesda System. RESULTS: There were 261,881 examinations, 159,251 with and 102,630 without TZ representation. The global frequency of abnormal results was higher in smears with TZ representation (crude odds ratio [OR] 4.03; 95% confidence interval [CI] [3.71-4.38]). Considering only women between 25 and 64 years (the target of the national guidelines), there were higher results for high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (OR 11.54; 95% CI 6.74-19.78), low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (OR 2.82; 95% CI 2.17-3.67) atypical squamous cell in which high-grade intraepithelial lesion cannot be excluded (OR 6.90; 95% CI 4.91-9.66) and atypical squamous cell of undetermined significance (OR 3.53; 95% CI 3.11-4.01) among cases with TZ representation. CONCLUSION: Samples with TZ representation were associated with higher rates of abnormal results. Health professionals should be regularly trained to understand the weakness of cytological examinations when the TZ is not represented, especially in developing countries.

Prevalence and factors associated with cervical cancer preventive screening in a Peruvian region. / Prevalencia y factores asociados al tamizaje preventivo del cáncer cervical en una región de Perú.

Introduction: Preventive screening for cervical cancer is the best available strategy to reduce the incidence and mortality from this neoplasm. However, the low proportion of women who undergo routine screening is a pending concern for healthcare systems worldwide. Objective: To estimate the prevalence and factors associated with preventive cervical cancer screening in a Peruvian region. Methods: Cross-sectional, multicenter study. It enrolled 1146 women users of healthcare centers in a Peruvian sanitary region. The dependent variable was the performance of cervical cancer preventive screening with Papanicolaou or visual inspection with acetic acid in the last two years. The independent variables were sociodemographic and socio-sanitary factors, knowledge about cervical cancer and human papillomavirus, attitudes and information towards screening tests. To evaluate the association between the variables, crude and adjusted prevalence ratios were calculated with generalized linear models of Poisson. Results: The overall prevalence of preventive screening was 50.5%. This was associated with being tested, having a higher education level and urban area of residence, using contraceptive methods, having health insurance, being recommended by healthcare personnel to be screened, and being concerned about developing cervical cancer. It was also associated with responding that this cancer is preventable, being aware of cervical cancer or human papillomavirus, and believing it can cause cervical cancer. In contrast, considering preventive screening risky was associated with not having the test. Conclusions: The proportion of women with preventive cervical cancer screening is low. In addition, certain associated modifiable factors were identified, which could improve preventive screening behaviors and rates.

Introducción: El tamizaje preventivo del cáncer cervical es la mejor estrategia disponible para mermar la incidencia y mortalidad por esta neoplasia. No obstante, la baja proporción de mujeres que se someten al tamizaje de rutina, constituye un problema pendiente para los sistemas de salud del mundo. Objetivo: Estimar la prevalencia y los factores asociados a realizarse el tamizaje preventivo del cáncer cervical en una región de Perú. Métodos: Estudio transversal y multicéntrico. En él participaron 1146 mujeres usuarias de centros de salud de una región sanitaria de Perú. La variable dependiente fue la realización de un tamizaje preventivo de cáncer cervical con Papanicolaou o inspección visual con ácido acético, en los últimos dos años. Las variables independientes fueron factores sociodemográficos, sociosanitarios, conocimientos sobre cáncer de cuello uterino y virus del papiloma humano, actitudes e información ante las pruebas de tamizaje. Para evaluar la asociación entre las variables se calcularon razones de prevalencia crudas y ajustadas, con modelos lineales generalizados de la familia Poisson. Resultados: La prevalencia general del tamizaje preventivo fue de 50,5%. Esta se asoció a realizarse la prueba, el grado de instrucción superior y área de residencia urbana, usar métodos anticonceptivos, tener seguro de salud, recibir recomendación del personal de salud para realizarse el tamizaje y sentirse preocupada por adquirir cáncer de cuello uterino. También se vinculó a quienes respondieron que el cáncer es prevenible, que habían oído hablar de cáncer cervicouterino o virus del papiloma humano y si cree que este virus puede causar cáncer de cuello uterino, Además, se asoció el admitir que existe posibilidad de curar el cáncer con su detección temprana. En cambio, el considerar riesgoso el tamizaje preventivo se relacionó con no realizarse la prueba. Conclusiones: La proporción de mujeres con tamizaje preventivo de cáncer cervical es baja. Asimismo, se identificaron ciertos factores asociados modificables, los que podrían mejorar las conductas y tasas del tamizaje preventivo.

Prevalencia y factores asociados al tamizaje preventivo del cáncer cervical en una región de Perú / Prevalence and factors associated with cervical cancer preventive screening in a Peruvian region

Introducción El tamizaje preventivo del cáncer cervical es la mejor estrategia disponible para mermar la incidencia y mortalidad por esta neoplasia. No obstante, la baja proporción de mujeres que se someten al tamizaje de rutina, constituye un problema pendiente para los sistemas de salud del mundo Objetivo Estimar la prevalencia y los factores asociados a realizarse el tamizaje preventivo del cáncer cervical en una región de Perú Métodos Estudio transversal y multicéntrico. En él participaron 1146 mujeres usuarias de centros de salud de una región sanitaria de Perú. La variable dependiente fue la realización de un tamizaje preventivo de cáncer cervical con Papanicolaou o inspección visual con ácido acético, en los últimos dos años. Las variables independientes fueron factores sociodemográficos, sociosanitarios, conocimientos sobre cáncer de cuello uterino y virus del papiloma humano, actitudes e información ante las pruebas de tamizaje. Para evaluar la asociación entre las variables se calcularon razones de prevalencia crudas y ajustadas, con modelos lineales generalizados de la familia Poisson. Resultados La prevalencia general del tamizaje preventivo fue de 50,5%. Esta se asoció a realizarse la prueba, el grado de instrucción superior y área de residencia urbana, usar métodos anticonceptivos, tener seguro de salud, recibir recomendación del personal de salud para realizarse el tamizaje y sentirse preocupada por adquirir cáncer de cuello uterino. También se vinculó a quienes respondieron que el cáncer es prevenible, que habían oído hablar de cáncer cervicouterino o virus del papiloma humano y si cree que este virus puede causar cáncer de cuello uterino, Además, se asoció el admitir que existe posibilidad de curar el cáncer con su detección temprana. En cambio, el considerar riesgoso el tamizaje preventivo se relacionó con no realizarse la prueba. Conclusiones La proporción de mujeres con tamizaje preventivo de cáncer cervical es baja. Asimismo, se identificaron ciertos factores asociados modificables, los que podrían mejorar las conductas y tasas del tamizaje preventivo

Introduction Preventive screening for cervical cancer is the best available strategy to reduce the incidence and mortality from this neoplasm. However, the low proportion of women who undergo routine screening is a pending concern for healthcare systems worldwide. Objective To estimate the prevalence and factors associated with preventive cervical cancer screening in a Peruvian region. Methods Cross-sectional, multicenter study. It enrolled 1146 women users of healthcare centers in a Peruvian sanitary region. The dependent variable was the performance of cervical cancer preventive screening with Papanicolaou or visual inspection with acetic acid in the last two years. The independent variables were sociodemographic and socio-sanitary factors, knowledge about cervical cancer and human papillomavirus, attitudes and information towards screening tests. To evaluate the association between the variables, crude and adjusted prevalence ratios were calculated with generalized linear models of Poisson. Results The overall prevalence of preventive screening was 50.5%. This was associated with being tested, having a higher education level and urban area of residence, using contraceptive methods, having health insurance, being recommended by healthcare personnel to be screened, and being concerned about developing cervical cancer. It was also associated with responding that this cancer is preventable, being aware of cervical cancer or human papillomavirus, and believing it can cause cervical cancer. In contrast, considering preventive screening risky was associated with not having the test. Conclusions The proportion of women with preventive cervical cancer screening is low. In addition, certain associated modifiable factors were identified, which could improve preventive screening behaviors and rates.

Significance of concurrent HPV testing with unsatisfactory Papanicolaou test for prediction of follow-up HPV, Papanicolaou test, and biopsy results.

OBJECTIVES: Approximately 1% to 2% of routine cytologic specimens collected for Papanicolaou testing are unsatisfactory for evaluation. The American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology 2019 guidelines recommend repeat testing within 2 to 4 months of an unsatisfactory Papanicolaou test (UPT) result. METHODS: We evaluated the utility of follow-up Papanicolaou testing, human papillomavirus (HPV) testing, and biopsy in 258 cases of UPTs. RESULTS: High-risk HPV testing was positive in 17.4% (n = 45) and negative in 82.6% (n = 213) of cases at the time of initial UPT; 8.1% (n = 21) of cases had discordant HPV test results. Similarly, 3.8% (n = 8) of initially HPV-negative cases were reported to be HPV-positive on follow-up; 28.9% (n = 13) of initially HPV-positive cases were reported to be HPV negative on follow-up. In total, 27.1% (n = 70) of cases underwent biopsy. Biopsies with significant findings were present in 40% (n = 12) of HPV-positive cases and 7.5% (n = 3) of HPV-negative cases. Low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) (low-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia [CIN-1]) was the most significant finding in all 3 HPV-negative biopsies; 58.3% (n = 7) of HPV-positive biopsies showed LSIL (CIN-1), 13.3% (n = 4) showed HSIL (high-grade CIN), and 3.3% (n = 1) showed invasive carcinoma. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of concurrent HPV testing at the time of UPT for predicting follow-up HPV test result within 1 year of initial UPT are 80.0%, 94.0%, 71.1%, and 96.2%, respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of initial HPV test results for predicting follow-up Papanicolaou test results are 67.7%, 89.7%, 48.8%, and 95.0%, respectively. RESULTS: Concurrent HPV testing in the setting of UPT can be a sensitive tool for predicting follow-up HPV status and significant findings of squamous intraepithelial lesions on follow-up Papanicolaou tests and biopsy.

Evaluation of somatic mutations in cervicovaginal samples as a non-invasive method for the detection and molecular classification of endometrial cancer.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of endometrial cancer is increasing worldwide. While delays in diagnosis reduce survival, case molecular misclassification might be associated with under- and over-treatment. The objective of this study was to evaluate genetic alterations to detect and molecularly classify cases of endometrial cancer using non-invasive samples. METHODS: Consecutive patients with incident endometrial cancer (N = 139) and controls (N = 107) from a recent Spanish case-control study were included in this analysis. Overall, 339 cervicovaginal samples (out of which 228 were clinician-collected and 111 were self-collected) were analysed using a test based on next-generation sequencing (NGS), which targets 47 genes. Immunohistochemical markers were evaluated in 133 tumour samples. A total of 159 samples were used to train the detection algorithm and 180 samples were used for validation. FINDINGS: Overall, 73% (N = 94 out of 129 clinician-collected samples, and N = 66 out of 90 self-collected samples) of endometrial cancer cases had detectable mutations in clinician-collected and self-collected samples, while the specificity was 80% (79/99) for clinician-collected samples and 90% (19/21) for self-collected samples. The molecular classifications obtained using tumour samples and non-invasive gynaecologic samples in our study showed moderate-to-good agreement. The molecular classification of cases of endometrial cancer into four groups using NGS of both clinician-collected and self-collected cervicovaginal samples yielded significant differences in disease-free survival. The cases with mutations in POLE had an excellent prognosis, whereas the cases with TP53 mutations had the poorest clinical outcome, which is consistent with the data on tumour samples. INTERPRETATION: This study classified endometrial cancer cases into four molecular groups based on the analysis of cervicovaginal samples that showed significant differences in disease-free survival. The molecular classification of endometrial cancer in non-invasive samples may improve patient care and survival by indicating the early need for aggressive surgery, as well as reducing referrals to highly specialized hospitals in cancers with good prognosis. Validation in independent sets will confirm the potential for molecular classification in non-invasive samples. FUNDING: This study was funded by a competitive grant from Instituto de Salud Carlos III through the projects PI19/01835, PI23/00790, and FI20/00031, CIBERESP CB06/02/0073 and CIBERONC CB16/12/00231, CB16/12/00234 (Co-funded by European Regional Development Fund. ERDF: A way to build Europe). Samples and data were provided by Biobank HUB-ICO-IDIBELL, integrated into the Spanish Biobank Network, and funded by the Instituto de Salud Carlos III (PT20/00171) and by Xarxa de Bancs de Tumors de Catalunya (XBTC) sponsored by Pla Director d'Oncologia de Catalunya. This work was supported in part by the AECC, Grupos estables (GCTRA18014MATI). It also counts with the support of the Secretariat for Universities and Research of the Department of Business and Knowledge of the Generalitat de Catalunya, and grants to support the activities of research groups 2021SGR01354 and 2021SGR1112.

Relación entre ausencia de células endocervicales y citología Papanicolaou negativa en portadoras de lesiones escamosas premalignas de cuello uterino

Objetivo : Determinar la relación entre la ausencia de células endocervicales y resultados citológicos Papanicolaou falsos negativos. Material y métodos : Estudio observacional, de enfoque cuantitativo, transversal, relacional y retrospectivo realizado en el Servicio de Anatomía Patológica del Hospital General de Huacho. Se realizó la búsqueda de resultados de biopsias de cuello uterino positivos para lesiones intraepiteliales escamosas y sus respectivos resultados citológicos Papanicolaou previos durante los años 2016 al 2018. Se seleccionó los resultados negativos con ausencia de células endocervicales. Resultados : De los 158 resultados citológicos, 23 mostraron ausencia de células endocervicales y de éstos, sólo dos (8,7%) fueron reportados como negativos. En total 11 (7%) citologías fueron negativas. Conclusiones : No se encontró relación entre la ausencia de células endocervicales y resultados citológicos falsos negativos; por tanto, no influyó de manera significativa en la detección de lesiones escamosas premalignas de cuello uterino.

SUMMARY Objective : To determine the relationship between absence of endocervical cells and false negative Pap smears in patients with squamous premalignant cervix lesions. Methods : A cross sectional study was carried out at Servicio de Anatomía Patológica del Hospital General de Huacho. A search for positive cervix biopsies for squamous intraepithelial lesions and their Pap smears from 2016 to 2018 was done. Negative Pap smears with absence of endocervical cells were investigated. Results : 23 out of 158 cytology results showed absence of endocervical cells, only two (8.7%) were reported negative. Eleven cytologies were negative (7%). Conclusions : No relationship was found between absence of endocervical cells and false negative results at Pap smears. Therefore, no influence in the detection of squamous pre-malignant cells was found.