Are There Alternatives to Pap Smears?

Regular screening for cervical cancer, in the form of pap smears, has been proven to reduce the number of deaths from cervical cancer. But many women, especially in developing countries, don't receive regular pap smears, either because of a shortage of doctors, the expense of a clinical exam or cultural mores than discourage such intimate examinations. Alternatives to a traditional pap smear allow more women to screen themselves.

DNA Testing

• A simple swab that women do themselves is an easy, inexpensive alternative to the pap smear. The test checks for the presence of the DNA of the virus that causes most cervical cancers. There's no need for doctors to administer the test. The tests can be distributed in even remote villages, then mailed to a laboratory for the results. If this DNA is present, the woman can schedule a doctor's visit for further examination.

  The test requires women to collect a small sample of vaginal secretions on a swab. This can be done in complete privacy, without the presence of a doctor. The swab is analyzed in a lab for the presence of human papilloma virus DNA. HPV is the primary cause of cervical cancer.

Accuracy

• The new DNA test is so accurate that it may one day replace traditional pap smears. An study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that the DNA test was more effective than other methods at detecting cancer.

  The test could be a big money-saver as well. Since there's no doctor's visit involved, the only cost is for the test itself, which can be as little as $5.