From the Research
In Malaysia, women are recommended to start regular Pap smear testing at age 25 and continue until age 65, with testing typically done every 5 years, as per the most recent guidelines from the American Society of Clinical Oncology 1. The recommended age range for Pap smear testing in Malaysia is based on the latest evidence from the American Society of Clinical Oncology, which provides resource-stratified guidelines for the secondary prevention of cervical cancer 1.
Key Points to Consider
- The age range for Pap smear testing may vary depending on the resource setting, with maximal settings recommending testing every 5 years from age 25 to 65, and basic settings recommending one to three tests per lifetime from age 30 to 49 1.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA testing is recommended in all resource settings, with visual inspection with acetic acid as an alternative in basic settings 1.
- Women with risk factors such as HIV infection, immunosuppression, or previous abnormal results may need more frequent screening 1.
- The Malaysian Ministry of Health provides Pap smear screenings at government health clinics and hospitals at minimal or no cost, making it accessible to women across the country.
Importance of Pap Smear Testing
- Pap smear testing is crucial for detecting precancerous changes in the cervix before they develop into cervical cancer, which is largely caused by persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection 1.
- Early detection through regular screening significantly improves treatment outcomes and has contributed to substantial reductions in cervical cancer rates worldwide 1.
- Women in Malaysia have moderate awareness about Pap smear as a prevention tool to detect and prevent cervical cancer at an early stage, but further efforts are required to promote awareness and improve screening rates 2.