HPV testing for cervical cancer screening in Croatia

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Opportunistic cervical cancer screening using Pap smears has been conducted in Croatia since 1953.
• Despite screening efforts, cervical cancer remains a significant health issue in Croatia compared to European countries with organized programs.
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) testing is currently used as a secondary test for triage and follow-up in Croatia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the current status of cervical cancer screening in Croatia.
• To identify challenges and needs for optimizing Human Papillomavirus (HPV) testing implementation.
• To propose improvements for more effective cervical cancer control through organized screening.

Main Methods:

• Review of current cervical cancer screening practices in Croatia, including Pap smear cytology and various Human Papillomavirus (HPV) testing approaches.
• Analysis of the existing infrastructure and laboratory networking for HPV testing.
• Identification of the need for quality assessment and standardized reporting systems.

Main Results:

• A variety of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) testing methods have been adopted across different medical institutions in Croatia over the past decade.
• There is a recognized need for enhanced laboratory networking, quality assurance implementation, and a unified system for referring and reporting HPV test results.
• Current screening strategies require optimization to align with international standards for effective cervical cancer prevention.

Conclusions:

• The current opportunistic screening approach in Croatia is insufficient for optimal cervical cancer control.
• Standardization of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) testing, including laboratory networking and quality assessment, is urgently required.
• Implementing Human Papillomavirus (HPV) testing as a primary screening strategy, supported by a well-organized system, is essential for improving cervical cancer outcomes in Croatia.