Cervical Cancer Screening with HPV Testing: Updates on the Recommendation.

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Oncology
• Public Health

Background:

• The 2018 Brazilian guidelines for cervical cancer screening using HPV DNA testing required reassessment.
• New international guidelines and updated knowledge necessitate revisions to clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To update the 2018 guidelines for HPV DNA testing in cervical cancer screening in Brazil.
• To incorporate recent international recommendations and scientific advancements.
• To provide evidence-based answers for clinical practice in both public and private Brazilian healthcare sectors.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive review of the most relevant and recent international guidelines was conducted.
• Key questions regarding clinical practice were formulated and addressed.
• Consideration was given to the perspectives of Brazil's public and private healthcare systems.

Main Results:

• The review addressed age-based screening strategies (initiation and cessation).
• It evaluated the roles of cytology and colposcopy in management decisions.
• Treatment, follow-up, and screening in specific populations (e.g., vaccinated women) were analyzed.

Conclusions:

• The updated guidelines aim to enhance cervical cancer prevention in Brazil.
• Strategies are proposed to minimize overtreatment and the inappropriate use of HPV testing.
• The goal is to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of cervical cancer screening programs.