By the way, doctor: How long should I keep getting Pap tests?
The success of cervical cancer screening is irrefutable. Once, cervical cancer was the No. 1 cause of cancer death for women in the United States. But today, it's fallen to 10th place, largely because of Pap testing. Since 1950, the rate of new cases and the number of deaths from the disease have dropped by more than 50%. Still, an estimated 11,070 cases of invasive cervical cancer will occur in the United States this year, and some 3,870 women will die because of it.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
