Maintaining uterine health. Papanicolaou smear screening through the generations

Abstract

The benefit of Papanicolaou screening in reduction of cervical cancer rates has been clearly demonstrated. The incidence has fallen considerably since screening began in the 1940s. Differences in rates of screening occur across generations of women through variation in access, patient education, and routines of practitioners. This article reviews the use of Papanicolaou screening by women of different ages and presents possible methods for increasing use.