Opportunistic Cervical Cancer Screening During Antenatal Visits: A Small Step Toward Early Detection

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Oncology
• Public Health

Background:

• Cervical cancer is a major public health issue in India.
• Early detection and screening are crucial for managing cervical cancer.
• Comparing screening results between pregnant and non-pregnant women can inform public health strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare cytological abnormalities and human papillomavirus (HPV) positivity rates between pregnant and non-pregnant women.
• To evaluate the feasibility of cervical cancer screening during the antenatal period.

Main Methods:

• Prospective observational study at a tertiary care center in North India.
• 120 women (60 pregnant, 60 non-pregnant) underwent conventional Pap smear and co-testing (liquid-based cytology and HPV DNA testing).
• Smears were interpreted using the Bethesda system; results were compared between groups.

Main Results:

• Satisfactory cervical smear results were obtained in over 93% of participants.
• Premalignant lesions (ASC-US, LSIL) were detected in both pregnant and non-pregnant groups.
• HPV DNA positivity rates were comparable between pregnant and non-pregnant women.

Conclusions:

• The prevalence of cytological abnormalities and HPV DNA positivity is similar in pregnant and non-pregnant women.
• Cervical cancer screening using HPV DNA testing or cytology can be effectively integrated into antenatal care.
• Increased antenatal visits support opportunistic screening for cervical cancer.