How accurate is the Pap test?
The Pap test can identify many women in need of treatment, especially when it is repeated regularly. However, the Pap is not foolproof. One recent study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that about one third of cervical cancers occur due to Pap failure. In other words, these women’s Pap results appeared normal, despite the slowly developing abnormal cells on their cervix. Even with the newer, “liquid-based” Pap abnormal cells may be missed. [For more information on this study, refer to “Cervical Cancer in Women with Comprehensive Health Care Access: Attributable Factors in the Screening Process,” by Wendy A. Leyden et al: Journal of the National Cancer Institute; Vol. 97, No. 9; May 4, 2005; pgs. 675-683.
