Alberta shifts to HPV screening for cervical cancer

BY ECHO STAFF

Alberta has begun routinely offering a new cervical screening test to people aged 50 to 69, shifting away from regular Pap tests as the province works toward eliminating cervical cancer.

The new test screens for high-risk types of human papillomavirus, or HPV, which can cause cervical cancer. Alberta says scientific evidence shows HPV testing is more effective at identifying people at risk and is becoming the standard approach across Canada.

HPV infections are common and often clear on their own without symptoms. But some types can persist and cause cell changes that may lead to cervical cancer.

“By testing for high-risk HPV types that cause cervical cancer, patients who are at risk can be identified earlier and more accurately,” said Dr. Carolyn O’Hara, interim chief laboratory officer with Alberta Precision Laboratories.

Planning is underway to expand the HPV-based screening test to Albertans aged 25 to 49. That group currently receives Pap tests every three years to check for abnormal cervical cells, while the HPV screening test is recommended every five years.

Once the new screening program expands, Alberta will no longer offer routine Pap tests.

“Whether you’re eligible for a Pap test or the cervical screening test, screening only takes a few minutes and can save lives,” said Dr. Jack Pang, medical lead with the Alberta Cervical Cancer Screening Program.

The transition is being implemented in collaboration with the Government of Alberta, Primary Care Alberta and Alberta Precision Laboratories.

Health Minister Adriana LaGrange said the change reflects a move toward evidence-based care and aims to identify those at risk earlier.

The cervical screening test is performed by a health-care provider and involves collecting a sample in the same way as a Pap test before it is sent to a lab for testing.

Albertans can contact their health-care provider or a women’s health clinic to book an appointment. Those without a regular provider can use the Alberta Find a Doctor website, the screeningforlife.ca clinic locator or call Health Link at 811.

Health officials say people should continue to get screened even if they feel healthy, have had only one sexual partner, have received the HPV vaccine, are no longer sexually active, have been through menopause or have no symptoms.

January is Cervical Health Awareness Month. More information is available at screeningforlife.ca/cervical.