Cervical Cancer Screening: Past, Present, and Future.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Virology
• Public Health

Background:

• Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of cancer mortality among women globally, particularly in developing regions.
• The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary causative agent of cervical cancer.
• Advancements in screening and treatment technologies are crucial for mitigating the global burden of HPV and cervical cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and describe current and emerging methods for the detection and treatment of HPV, cervical dysplasia (CD), and cervical cancer.
• To highlight novel technologies and updated screening strategies for cervical cancer.
• To emphasize the importance of HPV testing and cervical cancer screening in reducing mortality.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was performed using PubMed to identify relevant studies and publications.
• The review focused on research pertaining to HPV, CD, and cervical cancer detection and treatment.
• Key outcome measures included the sensitivity and cost-effectiveness of new screening methods.

Main Results:

• HPV and cervical cancer represent a significant global health challenge.
• Innovations in detection and treatment are vital for reducing the worldwide impact of these diseases.
• New rapid, low-cost HPV testing enables high-volume screening for previously unscreened populations.

Conclusions:

• Screening for HPV and CD can substantially lower a woman's risk of cervical cancer mortality.
• Integrated approaches combining HPV testing, high-resolution digital colposcopy, and artificial intelligence for image interpretation offer a sensitive and efficient "see-and-treat" model.
• This advanced model, including thermocoagulation for lesion treatment, presents a low-cost, effective strategy for the future of cervical cancer management.