FAMILY PLANNING PROGRAMS AND DETECTION OF CERVICAL NEOPLASIA

Abstract

The numerous parallels between family planning programs and cervical neoplasia detection programs are reviewed and the means for closer collaboration between these programs to better achieve their mutual ends are described. Family planning and cervical cancer detection programs have shared similar histories and similar criticisms of questionable effectiveness. The 2 programs both aim at women in the reproductive age groups who are reproductively active and have been affected by societys changing sexual mores. Despite these similarities there has been little adminstrative coordination between the programs and it is clear that the cancer programs scientists could use the family planning programs sociologists and vice versa. Cooperation between these programs could be particularly important in reaching the young poor women who are not being reached by either campaign. In many foreign countries a cytology screening program could significantly reduce the high incidence of cervical cancer among the women of high parity and low socioeconomic status being sought by the family planners. One such program in the British West Indies where effective coordination between family planning and cervical cancer has been implemented is discussed. A particularly valuable product of cooperation between these programs would be the opportunities for combined research into the relationship of oral contraceptives and cancer. Epidemiological studies would also be aided under these conditions.