A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF EFFECTIVENESS OF PAP SMEAR, ACETIC ACID TEST AND COLPOSCOPY IN CERVICAL CANCER SCREENING

Abstract

Introduction: In developing nations, approximately 80% of cervical cancer cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, underscoring the need for a cost-effective approach suitable for mass screening programs aimed at effective cervical cancer detection. Various screening and assessment tools have been developed, including colposcopy, Pap smear, and VIA (Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid). Consequently, this investigation was undertaken to assess the comparative efficacy of these screening methods for detecting cervical cancer.

Material and Methods: This prospective study enrolled 143 women aged between 20 and 70 years who visited the gynecology department at an Indian tertiary care teaching hospital. Eligible participants included sexually active, non-pregnant women with no active cervical diseases, no history of cervical conization, cryotherapy, or other invasive treatments for cervical cancer, no prior history of pre-invasive lesions, and no previous diagnosis of cervical cancer.

Results: The majority of participants in the study fell within the age range of 31 to 50 years. Among the three procedures, colposcopy was found to be more sensitive and specific compared to pap smear procedure and visual inspection with acetic acid procedure.

Conclusion: Cervical cancer, when identified and managed at an early stage, can be prevented and successfully treated. Therefore, regular mandatory screening is essential for females aged 40 years and above. Our research demonstrates that colposcopy is a more precise and sensitive tool compared to Pap smear and VIA for screening purposes.