We want to inform our patients about an important change to the cervical cancer screening guidelines in Ontario, which may affect how you are screened in the future. The province has recently updated its screening recommendations to improve early detection and better protect your health.
What's Changing?
Starting from March 3, 2025, the cervical cancer screening program in Ontario will be shifting to Human Papillomavirus (HPV) testing as the primary method of screening, instead of the traditional Pap (cytology) test. The new guidelines recommend that individuals with a cervix, aged 25 to 69, will now be screened for HPV every 5 years, rather than every 3 years.
Criteria for HPV Testing
The new guidelines for HPV testing apply to individuals who meet the following criteria:
Have a cervix
Are over the age of 25
Have ever been sexually active in any form
If you meet these criteria, you will be eligible for the new HPV testing guidelines. If you have any concerns or are unsure about your eligibility, please contact us to discuss your individual case.
What is HPV Testing?
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) testing looks for the presence of high-risk types of HPV, which can cause changes to the cells of the cervix that may lead to cervical cancer. By testing for HPV, we are able to detect any risks earlier, allowing for better prevention and follow-up care if necessary.
Advantages of HPV Testing
HPV testing offers several key advantages:
Higher Sensitivity: HPV testing is better at detecting cervical pre-cancer or cancer than cytology (Pap) testing alone. This means it's more effective at identifying potential issues early.
Objective Results: HPV testing provides highly consistent and reproducible results, ensuring greater accuracy and reliability in screening.
High Negative Predictive Value: HPV testing has a high negative predictive value, meaning that negative results are more likely to accurately identify individuals who do not have cervical pre-cancer or cancer and will not develop cervical cancer in the next 5 years.
Earlier Discharge from Colposcopy: HPV testing allows for earlier and more appropriate discharge from colposcopy, a procedure that may have been previously required for certain abnormal results, reducing unnecessary procedures.
What Does This Mean for You?
Your next screening will be done differently: If you are due for a cervical cancer screening, you will be tested for HPV instead of a Pap (cytology) test. You can expect this test to occur every 5 years, as long as your results remain normal and you are within the appropriate age group. Please note the actual procedure is conducted the same way as a traditional pap exam by the doctor in office - we do not offer self HPV swabs at this time.
If you have had an abnormal pap smear in the past and/or have had to have colposcopy in the past: Please discuss with your doctor your individual case to get guidance on your cervical screening interval and type of test.
Why the Change?
The decision to move to HPV testing every 5 years is based on extensive research and evidence showing that HPV testing is more accurate and effective in preventing cervical cancer than the Pap test alone. The new guidelines will help reduce the risk of cervical cancer, while also ensuring a more convenient screening schedule for individuals.
What Should You Do Next?
If you are due for a screening, please contact us to schedule an appointment.
If you have any questions or concerns about the changes in the cervical cancer screening program, feel free to reach out to us. We are happy to assist you and ensure you feel comfortable with the process.
Special Considerations for Immunocompromised Individuals:
Certain populations may be at a higher risk of cervical pre-cancer and cancer, and therefore need more frequent screening. If you are in one of the following immunocompromised categories, you may need to screen every 3 years if your last HPV test was negative:
People living with HIV/AIDS, regardless of CD4 cell count
People with congenital (primary) immunodeficiency
Transplant recipients (solid organ or allogeneic stem cell transplants)
People requiring treatment (either continuously or at frequent intervals) with medications that cause immune system suppression for three years or more
People living with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), regardless of whether they are receiving immunosuppressant treatment
People living with renal failure and requiring dialysis
If you fall into any of these categories, we recommend discussing your screening schedule with your doctor to ensure you are receiving the appropriate care.