Some key points
- The smear test aims to prevent cancer, not to detect cancer.
- Some cells are scraped off the cervix and 'smeared' on a glass slide. These are looked at under a microscope.
- Most smear tests are normal.
- About 1 in 10 tests show abnormal cells. These are rarely cancer.
- Minor abnormal changes in the cells need checking by a repeat smear in a few months.
- More serious abnormal changes in the cells can be treated before they turn to cancer.
- Every woman aged 25-64 is advised to have a smear at least every 3-5 years. (Women aged 25-49 are usually invited three yearly and women aged 50-64 five yearly.)
©EMIS and PIP 2004
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