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Cervical cancer is a serious but largely preventable disease that begins in the cells of the cervix—the lower, narrow part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It develops when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably, often progressing slowly over many years. With early detection and proper care, cervical cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer.
What The Screening or test result mean
Normal Cervical Smear: The cells obtained from the cervical smear look normal in details under the microscope.
Negative HR HPV: No High risk HPV was detected in the cervical smear sample.
Positive for HR HPV: Presence of High risk Human Papilloma Virus was detected in the cervical smear sample. If smears are positive for HR HPV, they should be repeated in 12 months. If positive again at 24 month (third time) then patients should be referred to colposcopy clinic.
Inadequate cervical smear: The sample is not sufficient to make accurate diagnosis and so tests are advised to be repeated. If persistent inadequate smear, patients will be referred to colposcopy.
Borderline Changes in Squamous Cells: The cells in the external part of the cervix changes in the cells are scanty and not enough to classify it as mild, moderate or severe, hence borderline.
Mild or low Grade Dyskaryosis: Changes to the appearance of the cells of the cervix, these changes are mild. The changes are not cancer and may revert back to normal or progress to moderate or severe changes in the near future. The next step is referral to colposcopy for patients to be seen within 6 weeks.
Moderate Dyskaryosis / Severe Dyskaryosis: These changes are also called high grade changes. Patients should be referred to colposcopy to be seen within 2 weeks.
Borderline Changes in endocervical cells: this is not common but does signify changes in the cells lining the inner part of the cervix, The patient should be referred to be seen within 2 weeks at colposcopy clinic.
Server Dyskaryosis ? Invasive. This signifies changes to the cells that is highly suggestive that the cells has turned to cancer. These should be referred to colposcopy clinic within 2 weeks. In a patient undergoing regular screening, even if cancer is found following this smear, they are usually very early stage that are completely curable with simple measures under local anaesthesia, fertility sparing treatments or simple hysterectomy.
? Glandular Neoplasia: the changes suggest the cells lining the inner part of the cervix may have turned to cancer. Again, in patients having regular screening, these are often at a point that iftghere is a cancer, they are often completely cured.
Why Awareness and regular Screening Matter
Cervical cancer remains a major global health challenge, especially in communities with limited access to screening and vaccination. Increasing awareness, improving access to care, and empowering individuals with knowledge can save countless lives.