Somatic mutations in cervicovaginal samples: assessing their role in ovarian cancer detection and prognosis.

Neuroendocrine malignancies of the cervix (NEM) are an aggressive tumor with early metastasis and recurrence, resulting in poor prognosis and 5-year mortality ranging from 10% to 25% for later stages of disease. These are a rare malignancy of middle-aged and elderly women with an incidence of <2%. The clinical presentation is like the common cervical cancer-squamous cell carcinoma, presenting with nonspecific vaginal bleeding. Pap smear has very low sensitivity and accuracy for NEM, leading to delayed diagnosis. Due to its low incidence, the lack of specific clinical findings, and the limited sensitivity of Pap smears for diagnosing NEM, delays in diagnosis are common, contributing to a higher number of late-stage presentations. Hence, diagnosis by imaging using features such as intratumoral necrosis and hemorrhage, lower ADC values with a cutoff of 0.9×10-3mm2/s, lymphadenopathy, parametrial and vascular invasion, infiltrative features, and pathologic sampling with immunohistochemical staining is crucial and of paramount importance. We aim to discuss the clinical, imaging, and pathologic findings of NEM and describe the current management options for patients with this aggressive malignancy.

<P> Introduction: Cervical cancer continues to be a predominant cause of cancer-related mortality in women, especially in developing nations where its incidence is significantly raised. The Pap smear test is extensively utilized for early detection, and machine learning algorithms have evolved as effective strategies to improve diagnostic accuracy and efficacy. </P> <P> Methods: This systematic review, guided by PRISMA, analyzes recent machine vision-based frameworks designed for cervical cancer screening using Pap smear images. This research was classified into three primary methodological domains: segmentation, feature extraction, and classification. Besides, commonly utilized datasets were examined to evaluate their validity and relevance for cervical cancer screening applications. </P> <P> Results: This review synthesizes the methods chosen and essential elements necessary for the design of effective machine learning-based screening systems. Deep learning methods demonstrated improved accuracy when utilized with extensive annotated datasets. The absence of high-quality multi-cell datasets and inconsistencies in evaluation practices hinder comparable options among studies. </P> <P> Discussion: Results show that, despite significant progress, no single framework consistently outperform others in all contexts. Deep learning-based and hybrid models demonstrate significant potential; but, variability in datasets and evaluation methods limits their generalization and clinical implementation. Improving reproducibility and reliability necessitates addressing dataset quality, annotation standards, and benchmarking practices. </P> <P> Conclusion: This review considers the strengths and limitations of existing approaches and offers practical insights for the advancement of cervical cancer screening research. Future research must focus on the creation of standardized datasets and evaluation frameworks to improve clinical applicability and guarantee the robustness and scalability of diagnostic systems.

Screening and early diagnosis for cervical cancer are essential to reducing morbidity and mortality; however, participation in cancer screening remains inadequate. This study aimed to examine the effect of motivational interviewing based on the COM-B (Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, and Behavior) model on women's cervical cancer health beliefs and participation in screening. The study was designed as a single-blind randomized controlled trial and conducted between February 12 and November 12, 2024. The sample consisted of 68 women aged 30-65. The intervention group received COM-B model-based motivational interviewing in 4 sessions, including 1 face-to-face meeting and 3 telephone calls. The median scores of the "Health Motivation" and "Barriers to Pap Smear Tests" subscales of the "Health Belief Model Scale for Cervical Cancer and the Pap Smear Test" changed statistically significantly over time from pretest to posttest. Following the intervention, women in the intervention group had higher participation in cervical cancer screening compared with the control group. In this preliminary study, the COM-B model-based motivational interviewing program increased perceived health motivation and participation in cervical cancer screening while reducing perceived barriers to Pap smear tests. Nurses could adopt a motivational interviewing approach to increase women's participation in cervical cancer screening. The COM-B model may also serve as an effective framework for promoting changes in cancer screening behaviors. Future large-scale implementation studies are recommended to assess feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and broader applicability of this approach.

Background: Vaginal discharge is a common gynecological problem of varying etiol ogies affecting women's health. This study aimed to assess the characteristics of vaginal discharge in women and aimed to bridge the gap by assessing knowledge, attitude and practice related to menstrual and puerperal hygiene. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the outpatient department of Obstetrics and gynecology at Chattagram Maa-O-Shishu Hospital Medical College, from July to December 2018 and included 91 women presenting with vaginal discharge and related problems. Data were collected through pretested semi structured questionnaires, clinical examinations, High Vaginal Swab (HVS) Pap Smear and Urine Routine and Microscopic Examination (RME) and Culture Sensitivity (C/S). Results: The majority of participants were in the 20-24 (34.07%) and 25-29 (26.37%) age groups, predominantly married (90.11%), largely housewives (75.82%) with education below higher secondary level (59.34%). Over half (51.65%) were overweight. Oral contraceptives were the most common contraceptive method (35.16%). Good menstrual hygiene and puerperal hygiene practiced by 43.96% participants and poor menstrual and puerperal hygiene by 56.04%. HVS results showed Candida and mixed infections (10.99% each) Trichomonas (8.79%) and Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) (3.30%). Pap Smear indicated a range of infection severity and Urine RME&amp; C/S revealed infection rate 30.77%. Conclusion: The study highlights the need for accurate diagnosis and comprehensive reproductive healthcare and practice of healthy menstrual and puerperal hygiene to manage vaginal discharge effectively. It emphasizes the significance of various factors such as lifestyle, educational background and clinical characteristics for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Chatt Maa Shi Hosp Med Coll J; Vol.24 (2); July 2025; Page 91-96

Abstract Cervical cancer remains a major global health challenge, particularly in low-resource settings where access to timely and accurate diagnostic services is limited. Although Pap smear screening has significantly reduced cervical cancer mortality, manual cytological assessment is labor-intensive, prone to inter-observer variability, and dependent on expert availability. To address these limitations, this study presents a hybrid classification framework that integrates deep feature extraction with interpretable rule-based learning for cervical cancer diagnosis from Pap smear images. High-level visual features are extracted using a pre-trained InceptionV3 convolutional neural network, while classification is performed using Convolutional Tsetlin Machines (CTMs), which employ logical clauses learned through Tsetlin automata to enable transparent decision-making. The proposed framework was evaluated on a publicly available liquid-based cytology dataset comprising four diagnostic classes: Negative for Intraepithelial Malignancy, Low Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion, High Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion, and Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Experimental results obtained under stratified cross-validation demonstrate strong and consistent performance, achieving an accuracy of 99.96%, precision of 98.99%, recall of 98.96%, and an F1-score of 98.98%. Beyond high classification accuracy, the intrinsic interpretability of CTMs allows inspection of learned logical rules, supporting clinical transparency and trust. These findings indicate that combining deep transfer learning with interpretable machine learning offers a promising direction for reliable and explainable cervical cancer screening systems, particularly in resource-constrained healthcare environments.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection globally, with millions of new cases reported each year. Human Papillomavirus is associated with cervical, anal, vulva, penile, and esophageal cancer. Cervical cancer is a significant threat to women because of its insidious nature; thus, cervical cancer screening remains crucial for early detection and intervention.The most effective method to protect against HPV-related cancers is through vaccination with the HPV vaccine. The Human Papillomavirus vaccine targets the most common high-risk HPV strains. Vaccination is recommended for both males and females between the ages of 9-26. Vaccination reduces the risk of infection and contributes to the prevention of HPV-related cancers, representing a crucial public health initiative in battling HPV. The active duty military population has low HPV vaccination rates. A visit for a pap smear, the screening for cervical cancer, is an optimal time for providers to discuss the HPV vaccine. This research aims to understand the low HPV vaccination rate among active duty women and whether providers are maximizing opportunities to promote vaccination against HPV. A retrospective medical chart review was performed at a single military treatment facility (MTF) of active duty women between the ages of 21-26, who had an abnormal pap smear, and no record of receiving the HPV vaccine. A chart review was conducted for the visit in which the pap smear was performed, as well as the follow-up visit/phone call to discuss the abnormal pap smear results. Seven hundred fifty-one charts were reviewed from 2005 to 2021 of unvaccinated active duty women with an abnormal pap smear. 46.3% of the abnormal pap smears were low-grade squamous intraepithelial cells (LGSIL), whereas 3.3% were high-grade squamous intraepithelial cells (HGSIL). Of the charts reviewed, 8.3% of the patients noted they had been vaccinated; 13.8% of the charts had documented recommendations for the HPV vaccination; and 77.9% had no documentation regarding the patient's HPV status or recommendation for vaccination. Although the HPV vaccine is effective in reducing the risk of HPV-related cancers, our results indicate the need for increased awareness and education practices amongst providers in promoting the HPV vaccine.A limitation of the study was that it was conducted at a single MTF. The study was not able to distinguish between provider types or clinic settings. Possible proposals for future studies include evaluating why the HPV vaccination rates amongst the active duty population are low. Pap smears are a prime opportunity for providers to engage in discussion of the importance of the HPV vaccine and encourage adherence.

Background: Cervical cancer remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria. According to the latest GLOBOCAN 2022 estimates, there were 13,676 new cases and 7,093 deaths, making it the third most common cancer and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality among women in the country. Although Nigeria has adopted both national and global strategies supporting HPV vaccination and the elimination of cervical cancer by 2030, the uptake of Pap smear screening and other preventive services remains low. Assessing the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of women regarding cervical cancer prevention is essential to identifying gaps in awareness, health communication, and service delivery. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding cervical cancer, Pap smear screening, and HPV vaccination among women aged 21–65 years in Nnewi-North LGA, Anambra State, Nigeria, and identified barriers to effective prevention and control. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among women attending primary health centres (PHCs) in Nnewi-North LGA. Using a multistage random sampling method, data were collected through a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire assessing socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to cervical cancer prevention. Data were analysed with SPSS version 25 using descriptive and inferential statistics at a significance level of p &lt; 0.05. Results: Of the 427 questionnaires distributed, 402 were completed (response rate = 94.1%). The majority of respondents were aged 21–40 years and 65.2% were married. Most (92%) had heard of cervical cancer, and 58.2% correctly identified HPV infection as its cause. Awareness of Pap smear was moderate (75.9%), but only 11.2% had ever been screened. Major barriers included lack of information on where to test (38.6%) and time constraints (25.4%). Awareness of HPV vaccination was high (86.3%), and 84.6% knew it prevents cervical cancer. Overall, 93.3% expressed willingness to undergo free screening and 96.8% would recommend it to others. Conclusion: Despite high awareness and generally positive attitudes toward cervical cancer prevention, actual uptake of Pap smear screening and HPV vaccination remains low among women in Southeast Nigeria. Educational level emerged as a key determinant of awareness and attitudes, with women who had higher education significantly more likely to be knowledgeable about cervical cancer, Pap smear screening, and HPV vaccination, and more willing to recommend HPV vaccination. Persistent knowledge gaps, sociocultural beliefs, and limited access to services continue to constrain preventive practices. Strengthening community-based health education particularly targeting women with lower educational attainment, improving service accessibility, and integrating cervical cancer screening into routine primary healthcare are essential to reducing the cervical cancer burden.

Genotype-specific prevalence of high-risk human papillomavirus among cytologically normal women in Taiwan.

Uninsured, low-income Spanish-speaking women face systemic barriers to accessing gynecologic care, especially within Fort Worth, Texas. Because of this health disparity, we elected to evaluate screening outcomes of patients receiving care at La Clínica de las Mujeres (LCDM), a student-run clinic (SRC) providing free, culturally competent care to this population in Fort Worth, Texas. To assess the structure and utilization of an SRC on cancer screening adherence among uninsured, Spanish-speaking women in Fort Worth, Texas. Retrospective descriptive pre-post study. Chart review of patients seen at LCDM from August 2022 to September 2024 was conducted. Data included 147 clinical encounters with 114 individual patients, assessing demographics, screening history, services, and referrals. McNemar's test assessed changes in screening adherence. Patients (mean age: 47.5 years; 95.6% Hispanic) primarily resided in underserved zip codes (77.2% in 76110). Pre-intervention, 46% adhered to Pap smear guidelines and 64% to mammography guidelines. Post-intervention adherence approaches complete compliance among those with available post-intervention data (Pap χ²[1] = 66.0, p < 0.0001; Mammogram χ²[1] = 27.0, p < 0.0001). Services included pelvic ultrasounds (n = 20), specialist referrals (n = 11), and contraceptive access (n = 12). LCDM was associated with significant improvements in gynecologic preventive care adherence for uninsured Spanish-speaking populations in Fort Worth, Texas. Student-run models may help address critical gaps in accessibility to women's health services and mitigate systemic barriers to care for underserved populations.

A pilot study on the acceptability and feasibility of HPV self-sampling for cervical cancer screening among women attending urban hospitals in Kumasi, Ghana.

Cervical cancer poses a major health challenge in rural India due to limited screening access, necessitating cost-effective Pap smear programs using Bethesda criteria in new healthcare centres. This retrospective study analysed 148 cervical Pap smears from a rural medical college in central India, classified per the standardised Bethesda reporting system. Most smears (77.7%) were negative for intraepithelial lesion/malignancy (NILM), while abnormalities included ASC-US (4.7%), AGC-NOS and HSIL, successfully identifying precancerous lesions. The 31–40 years age group dominated (32.4%), with screening uptake increasing 74% between years 1–2, demonstrating programme feasibility in resource-limited settings. Thus, we show that preventive oncology by validating Bethesda-standardised Pap screening as an effective, scalable strategy for early cervicovaginal abnormality detection in underserved rural populations. Cervical cancer poses a major health challenge in rural India due to limited screening access, necessitating cost-effective Pap smear programs using Bethesda criteria in new healthcare centres. This retrospective study analysed 148 cervical Pap smears from a rural medical college in central India, classified per the standardised Bethesda reporting system. Most smears (77.7%) were negative for intraepithelial lesion/malignancy (NILM), while abnormalities included ASC-US (4.7%), AGC-NOS and HSIL, successfully identifying precancerous lesions. The 31–40 years age group dominated (32.4%), with screening uptake increasing 74% between years 1–2, demonstrating programme feasibility in resource-limited settings. Thus, we show that preventive oncology by validating Bethesda-standardised Pap screening as an effective, scalable strategy for early cervicovaginal abnormality detection in underserved rural populations.

We evaluated the adherence of cervical cancer screening (CCS) to ASCCP guidelines in the United States within a single hybrid community-academic institution. In this retrospective cohort study, pap smears from October 2022 through December 2023 were abstracted from the electronic medical record. Adherence with CCS was determined by collecting tests ordered, the interval between tests, and subsequent result management. The findings were classified as adherent (appropriate order, interval, and management) or nonadherent. Descriptive statistics were employed. Three hundred and forty-eight pap smears were included; 225 (65%) were normal and 123 (35%) were abnormal. Two hundred thirty-two (67%) were nonadherent with ASCCP guidelines, while 116 (33%) were adherent. Of the nonadherent pap smears, 71 (31%) were ordered incorrectly, most commonly due to lack of HPV cotesting (87%); 190 (55%) were performed at an incorrect interval, most commonly due to an inappropriately short interval (89%); and 63 (18%) were managed inappropriately, most commonly due to lack of indicated colposcopy (57%) or unnecessary colposcopy (33%). Based on specific cytology results, overall adherence, appropriateness of interval, and order type did not vary between results (p=.18, p=.71, p=.23, respectively); however, the subsequent management was significantly different based on the cytology (p<.001). There were significant differences among provider type (p=.01) and practice (p<.001), but no difference by age, BMI, or medical comorbidity. In this cohort, the majority of pap smears were nonadherent, largely due to underutilization of HPV cotesting, overscreening, and lack of indicated colposcopy. With clear guidelines available, there is significant room for improvement.

Background: Cervical cancer is primarily caused by persistent infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV) and is considered one of the most preventable forms of cancer. Early detection through regular screening is essential, as it enables the identification of precancerous cervical cell changes and allows for timely intervention and treatment. This study aims to assess the level of knowledge regarding cervical cancer screening and its utilization. Methods: This study employed a descriptive cross-sectional design and was conducted among 464 married women residing in Ward No. 13 of Pokhara Metropolitan City. Participants were selected using a purposive sampling technique. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire that included items on demographic characteristics, reproductive history, awareness of cervical cancer and its screening, and the utilization of screening services. Results: A total of 464 married women participated in the study. Among them, 419 (90.3%) had heard of cervical cancer. Among those who had heard of cervical cancer, 377 (90%) demonstrated poor awareness of cervical cancer and its screening. Only 82 women (17.7%) had undergone cervical cancer screening, and among those screened, 50 (61%) reported having a Pap smear test. The most commonly reported reason for not undergoing screening was the absence of perceived health problems, followed by inadequate knowledge about the test. Factors such as educational status, occupation, age at marriage, parity, and age of childbirth showed a significant association with screening awareness. Conclusion: Although most participants had heard of cervical cancer, the overall level of awareness was poor, and the utilization of screening was low. Targeted culturally sensitive educational interventions and awareness programs are needed to improve knowledge and promote regular cervical cancer screening among married women.

Introduction: Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in female with high morbidity and mortality. Worldwide, cervical cancer is the fourth most occurring malignancy and results in an estimated 530,000 new cases annually with 270,000 deaths. In many developed countries, health education, awareness programs and early detection and appropriate management achieve 80% reduction in mortality. Cervical cancer death is successfully prevented in developed countries by cervical cytology screening. Methods: This was a comparative cross sectional study conducted in Gynaecological Oncology Department of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University. Duration of the study was one year from July 2018 to June 2019. It was aimed to evaluate the performance status of Pap's smear as a screening test for cervical cancer. Sample size was Hundred and Pap's smear were collected at GOPD. Cytology of the sample were done by conventional method. All the patients underwent colposcopy and directed biopsy at the colposcopy clinic of Gynae Oncology. Result: The result shows maximum (44%) patients had first intercourse at 10-15 years of age. Maximum (72%) patients came from low socioeconomic condition. The specificity and positive predictive value of pap's test was found as 81% and 52.63% respectively. According to pap's report 19% patients were positive and according to colposcopy biopsy 59% patients were positive for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. Conclusion: Cervical cancer screening for the early diagnosis of CIN, pap's smear is mandatory. VIA as a screenings test is not sufficient for the postmenopausal women. Medicine Today 2026, Vol.38 (1): 129-132

Background: Cervical cancer is a major cause of death in women in Indonesia. It can be detected through screening such as Pap smears or HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) tests, but the utilization of screening is still low, especially in rural areas, which results in many cases being at an advanced stage and affecting patient prognosis. Objective: This study aims to analyze sociodemographic factors that influence the utilization of cervical cancer screening (UCCS) in urban and rural areas in Indonesia. Methods: The 2023 Indonesian Health Survey (SKI/ Survei Kesehatan Indonesia) used a cross-sectional design across Indonesia from August to October 2023. A total of 1,191,692 people were interviewed, including 296,819 women eligible for cervical cancer screening (UCCS). The study focused on UCCS utilization, with independent variables including age, education, occupation, residence, and wealth index. Data were analyzed using univariate, bivariate (chi-square), and multivariate (binary logistic regression) methods, with separate models for all respondents, urban areas, and rural areas. Results: The finding of this study shows that 91.53% of respondents, both urban and rural, never utilized cervical cancer screening (UCCS). UCCS utilization is higher among women of reproductive age (9.23%), highly educated (15.96%), working in the formal sector (12.66%), and residing in urban areas (9.70%). The richest users (14.65%) are also higher than the poorest (5.51%). The multivariate analysis showed that women not in reproductive age were less likely to utilize cervical cancer screening, with varying probabilities depending on education, occupation, and wealth. Women with higher education, formal employment, and higher wealth were more likely to utilize screening, with the richest showing the highest likelihood. The urban model showed the best fit, with a higher pseudo-R2 (3.75%) compared to the rural model (1.68%). Conclusion: Socio-demographic factors such as age, education, occupation, and wealth significantly influence cervical cancer screening utilization in Indonesia. Higher utilization is observed among reproductive-aged women, those with higher education, formal employment, and wealthier groups, with urban areas showing better utilization rates than rural areas. Keywords: cervical cancer screening; sociodemographic; Survey Kesehatan Indonesia (SKI); urban and rural areas

Background: Cervical cancer remains one of the most preventable yet prevalent cancers in low- and middle-income countries. Persistent infection with high-risk HPV types—especially HPV-16 and HPV-18—is the strongest predictor of high-grade cervical lesions. Combined Pap smear and HPV DNA testing is increasingly recommended to improve early detection. Aim: To determine the prevalence of high-risk HPV 16/18 infection and evaluate its association with different grades of cervical cytological abnormalities among women attending a tertiary-care hospital in Agra. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 110 sexually active women aged 18–49 years attending the gynecology OPD at SN Medical College, Agra (2023–2025). Pap smears were reported according to the Bethesda System. Cervical samples were tested for HPV-16/18 DNA using PCR. Demographic variables, reproductive risk factors, symptom profiles, and cervical appearance were correlated with cytology grades and HPV positivity. Results: Of 110 women, 47 (42.7%) were NILM; 21 (19.0%) ASC-US; 4 (3.6%) ASC-H; 24 (21.8%) LSIL; and 14 (12.7%) HSIL. Overall HPV positivity was 44.5% (49/110). High-risk HPV was markedly associated with increasing cytological severity. HPV-16 was most prevalent in HSIL (57.1%), followed by HPV-18 (14.3%). Women &gt;30 years, parity ≥3, early sexual debut (&lt;19 years), and history of RTI/STD showed significantly higher dysplasia rates. The strongest association with high-risk HPV was seen in HSIL (prevalence ratio 3.1). Conclusion: High-risk HPV 16/18 shows a robust correlation with progressive cytological abnormalities. Integrating HPV DNA testing with Pap screening can substantially enhance early detection and reduce cervical cancer burden in tertiary-care settings.

Abstract Background: Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among women in Israel and globally. Although early detection significantly improves prognosis, 30% of women in Israel are diagnosed at a locally advanced or metastatic stage. In the early 1990s, Israel implemented a national breast cancer screening program, offering biennial mammograms at no cost to women aged 50 and older at average risk. Such organized programs, which provide free and accessible mammography, have been shown to improve adherence rates. Despite this, a substantial proportion of women do not participate in regular screening. Objective: To evaluate adherence to national mammography screening guidelines among Israeli women and identify sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with adherence. Methods: This population-based retrospective study included 100,000 women aged 35-75, using data collected between 2006 and 2020 from the centralized healthcare registry of Clalit, the largest health maintenance organization (HMO) in Israel. Women with a personal history of breast cancer, prior breast surgery, or known genetic predisposition were excluded. Adherence was defined as the proportion of recommended mammograms completed, categorized as: &amp;lt;0.2, &amp;lt;0.5, &amp;lt;0.8, and ≥0.8. The ≥0.8 group was considered fully adherent. Results: A total of 95,603 women met inclusion criteria. Only 17,533 (18%) demonstrated full adherence (≥80%). Among the adherent group, 4% were Ultra-Orthodox Jewish and 13% were Arab. Smoking status was associated with lower adherence; 80% of adherent women were non-smokers. In diabetic women (n=39513), only 5,929 women (15%) demonstrated full adherence. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) users were more likely to adhere, with 8,943 (51%) meeting the adherence threshold. Women engaged in other preventive health measures were significantly more likely to adhere to mammography screening. Among the adherent group, the median index for Pap smears was 0.18 (IQR: 0.07-0.30), for occult blood testing 0.33 (IQR: 0.17-0.56), and for colonoscopy 0.35 (IQR: 0.00-0.59). Adherence to pneumococcal vaccination showed high adherence to screening mammography with a median index of 1.0 (IQR: 0.60-1.0). In contrast, receipt of influenza vaccination was not associated with mammogram adherence. Conclusion: Despite the availability of a national, no-cost mammography screening program, overall adherence remains low. Sociodemographic characteristics and engagement in other preventive health behaviours significantly influence adherence. Targeted interventions are needed to improve screening rates, particularly among underserved populations. Citation Format: H. Kadar Sfarad, R. Magnezi, O. Eldar Friedman, O. Weinstein. Disparities in Mammography Screening in a Welfare-State Healthcare System: Data from 100,000 Women in Israel [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium 2025; 2025 Dec 9-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2026;32(4 Suppl):Abstract nr PS5-11-22.

Cervical cancer remains a major public health concern in developing regions, including Southwest China, where population-based screening coverage remains limited. This study aimed to identify sociodemographic, behavioral, and healthcare-related factors associated with cervical cancer screening participation among women in this region through a retrospective, database-based cross-sectional analysis. De-identified data from 2,320 women aged 20-65 years were retrospectively retrieved from institutional health information systems and standardized regional screening databases covering January-December 2023. Screening participation was defined as documentation of a Pap smear or HPV test within the preceding 3 years. Variables on demographic characteristics, health behaviors, and healthcare accessibility were analyzed using chi-squared tests, t-tests, and multivariable logistic regression. Subgroup analyses stratified by residence (urban vs. rural) and sensitivity analyses under alternative model assumptions were conducted to assess consistency and robustness. No new data were collected, and no direct participant contact occurred. Younger age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.96 per year; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.94-0.98), higher education (aOR = 2.30; 95% CI: 1.84-2.87), and higher income (aOR = 1.74; 95% CI: 1.44-2.11) were independently associated with greater screening participation. Urban residence (aOR = 2.13; 95% CI: 1.78-2.54), medical insurance coverage (aOR = 4.12; 95% CI: 3.19-5.33), and shorter distance to healthcare facilities (aOR = 0.39 for >15 km; 95% CI: 0.28-0.54) were also strongly associated with screening participation. Non-smoking and regular physical activity were positively associated with participation. Patterns were consistent across urban and rural subgroups, with no significant interaction effects. This retrospective database analysis identified socioeconomic and healthcare accessibility disparities that were associated with cervical cancer screening participation in Southwest China. Targeted interventions that strengthen education, expand insurance coverage, and improve access to primary screening services are critical to increasing screening uptake and advancing cervical cancer prevention equity.

Introduction: Cervical cancer remains the second most common cancer among women worldwide and the leading cause of cancer death. Depending on the center and the screening policy in place, primary screening may involve HPV testing, cervical smear testing, or both in a “co-testing” approach. The objective of our study was to describe the results obtained after primary co-testing screening. More specifically, we sought to report the epidemiological profile of patients, describe the cytology results and the results for HPV viruses detected, and correlate the type of HPV virus with the precancerous lesions detected. Materials and methods: This was a retrospective, descriptive, and analytical study involving 99 patients. The parameters studied concerned epidemiological data, cytological aspects of smears, and HPV test results. Performance indicators [sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, accuracy, Youden's index], concordance [Cohen's kappa], and McNemar's test were calculated. The analyses were performed using R. Results: Ninety-nine women were included. The mean age was 44.3 ± 10.2 years. HPV positivity was 24%, dominated by high-risk genotypes [76%]. The prevalence of cytological abnormalities was 8.1%. The HPV test had a sensitivity of 12.5% and a specificity of 74.7%, with a high NPV [90.7%] and low concordance with cytology [kappa = −0.07]. Conclusion: Co-testing shows good exclusion capacity but limited concordance in this context. Standardization of techniques and integration of molecular typing could improve performance.