Accueil Screening Cervical Cancer Screening

 

Cervical cancer is the cause of almost 1000 deaths a year in France. However, thanks to screening, it is possible to detect precancerous and cancerous cervical lesions, thus enabling better care or even prevention of the appearance of cancer. Screening, recommended for women aged 25 to 65, is conducted primarily on an individual basis at the initiative of the gynaecologist, GP or midwife.

Pilot experiments in organised screening have been launched in 13 departments (Haut-Rhin, Bas-Rhin, Isère, Martinique, Allier, Cantal, Haute-Loire, Puy-de-Dôme, Cher, Indre-et-Loire, Maine-et-Loire, La Réunion, Val-de-Marne).

There is also a vaccine against infection by certain types of HPV (Human Papilloma Virus), which are the cause of 70% of cervical cancers. This vaccination is no substitute for cervical smear screenings but rather an additional method of cervical cancer prevention.

In June, the National Cancer Institute launched a rallying campaign for cervical cancer screening and prevention designed to encourage women aged 25 to 65 to have cervical smear screenings performed once every three years and to increase rates of vaccination against HPV.