Screening for Cervical Cancer in Pregnancy

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Public Health
• Gynecology

Background:

• Cervical cancer significantly impacts morbidity and mortality in low/low-middle income countries.
• Late-stage diagnosis is common due to inadequate screening programs.
• Opportunistic screening during pregnancy offers a vital opportunity to reach at-risk populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the potential of integrating cervical cancer screening into antenatal care.
• To address barriers hindering widespread screening during pregnancy.
• To emphasize the need for improved information and reduced safety concerns.

Main Methods:

• Review of current screening practices in low/low-middle income countries.
• Analysis of barriers to screening pregnant women.
• Identification of opportunistic screening windows during antenatal visits.

Main Results:

• Lack of consistent screening leads to advanced cervical cancer diagnoses.
• Pregnancy presents a unique opportunity for screening susceptible women.
• Concerns regarding pregnancy loss, bleeding, and lack of information impede current practices.

Conclusions:

• Integrating cervical cancer screening into antenatal care is a viable strategy.
• Addressing safety concerns and improving health information are critical for implementation.
• Increased screening during pregnancy can reduce the burden of cervical cancer in underserved regions.