In 2022, in the Kaliningrad region, it is conducting HPV testing on women born in 1973-1992 as part of a pilot project for combined cervical cancer screening. The regional health ministry explained why the study is being conducted and how to join it.
1. What is HPV?
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the common name for a group of viruses spread around the world. HPV is mainly transmitted through sexual contact and most become infected shortly after sexual activity begins.
Cervical cancer develops due to some types of HPV infections. It is the second most common type of cancer among women in developing countries. Screening and treatment of precancerous lesions in women over the age of 30 is considered to be one of the effective methods of prevention. If cervical cancer is detected at an early stage, a complete cure is possible.
2. What do you need to take the test?
You have to fill out a form on the website of the Ministry of Health of the Kaliningrad Region, you will be contacted and invited to an appointment.
Three rules for registering for the exam:
- Pass the link. If you want to sign up for the test at the Center for Specialized Care, you can fill out the form here.
- Fill in the form.
- If you haven’t received a call within two business days, please fill out the form again.
3. Where can I take the test?
In any medical organization listed. You can choose one closer to your home or workplace.
4. What is needed for the exam?
Passport and MHI insurance policy. The study is free.
5. Who can be tested?
Women born in 1973-1992, sexually active. Those on dispensary records diagnosed with “genital tract HPV infection”, “cervical cancer” do not need to be examined.
6. Why is it necessary?
When examining doctors, they are interested in viruses that can lead to the development of cervical cancer. They are called elevated oncogenic HPVs. There are 13 types: 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 68, they are tested for everything.
7. What to do next if the HPV test is positive?
Modern cervical screening has been developed, which includes HPV testing, cytological examination of cervical smears and colposcopy. This makes it possible to detect significantly more precancerous lesions. If the HPV test is positive, the woman will be called for a further examination, which is also free. If necessary, recommendations will be given in consultation with a narrow specialist for the appointment of treatment.
8. How often should I get tested for HPV?
WHO recommends screening at the age of 30-49. In the absence of pathological changes, the interval between examinations can vary from 3 to 5 years. If benign diseases of the cervix are detected, dynamic monitoring is required once a year. If a serious pathology is detected, the doctor recommends an individual plan for examination and treatment.
9. Is the proposed test effective?
Test efficiency is high. To conduct laboratory analyzes, methods and equipment are used that today are considered the gold standard for organizing such studies around the world.
10. Where can I find the result?
At the Center for Specialized Types of Medical Care, at the time of collection, you will indicate the telephone number to which your result will be sent. If you wish, you can collect the original study form. If you are testing for HPV at another facility from the suggested list, be sure to discuss this with your doctor.
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