The Effect of Age on Cervical Cancer Screening in Women Aged 20-29

Abstract

no definite consensus exists currently regarding the appropriate age at which to start cervical cancer screening. we analyzed the effectiveness of age in abnormal histology outcomes in women aged 20-29. data on women aged 20-29 having undergone opportunistic cervical cancer screening with cytology during the 2014-2019 period were retrospectively reviewed. Based on cytology outcomes, human papillomavirus test results (if present), age and clinical decision, patients underwent either colposcopy or observation. The effects of age and other epidemiologic factors on histologic diagnoses of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (Cin) or cancer [Cin (+)] were analyzed in univariate and binomial logistic regression analyses. Among 1649 women, Cin (+) lesions were observed in 61 (3.7%) women. The occurrence of Cin (+) lesions increased 1.149 times each year; thus, women aged 25-29 were more likely to have Cin (+) than those aged 20-24 (4.4% vs. 2.1%; p=0.019). A significant determinant of Cin (+) was the increase in age, i.e. women aged 20-29. Accordingly, considering age is crucial for the diagnosis of Cin (+) in cancer screening.

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“…[22] It is also critical to consider the age of women who will undergo cervical screening. [23] Screening around the age of 20 has minimal effect on identifying cancer, but it may cause harm by treating highgrade cervical lesions that may resolve over time, resulting in preterm birth and low birth weight. [24] Meanwhile, screening around the age of 30 may result in the missed detection of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) lesions, which has the potential to develop into cervical cancer.…”

“…[24] Meanwhile, screening around the age of 30 may result in the missed detection of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) lesions, which has the potential to develop into cervical cancer. [23] As a result, there is no universally agreed-upon age for cervical cancer screening. Instead, differing age recommendations were listed as follows: age 21, [25] 25 years of age; [26] and age of 30 in the general population.…”