Ontario cervical cancer screening clinical practice guidelines

Abstract

Objective: To develop clinical practice guidelines for cervical screening and the primary management of abnormal cytology in Ontario, using an established methodological process.

Data sources: Primary data sources were relevant articles listed in the Medline (1998 to July 2004), Embase (1998 to July 2004), and Cochrane Library (2004, Issue 2) databases.

Study selection: Studies addressing quality or the optimization of cervical screening were considered eligible in the systematic review of the evidence. Specifically, clinical practice guidelines, technology assessments, systematic reviews, and randomized controlled trials were of primary interest. Given the variability of the data, other information sources were considered eligible if there was a demonstrated gap in the published literature.

Data extraction: Data were identified and extracted by a methodologist and reviewed by four authors. Results were reviewed and discussed by members of an expert working group consisting of a diverse group of health professionals with expertise in cervical cancer. Data audits were conducted by independent reviewers.

Data synthesis: recommendations with evidence ratings were developed through a review of the evidence with expert consensus and were approved by more than 80% of 40 external practitioners who reviewed the document and responded to a standardized survey.

Conclusion: The development of comprehensive recommendations on cervical screening in Ontario was feasible using a rigorous methodological process. Recommendations for practice are provided.