Regular screening is an essential defense against cervical cancer. Cervical cancer screening can detect early cell changes on the cervix caused by persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. These changes seldom cause any symptoms, but can progress to cancer if not found and treated. Screening is the only way to detect changes that might lead to cancer.  (Ministry of Health – Ontario)

Overview
The cervical cancer screening program is run out of our office.  All eligible female patients between the ages of 21 to 70 are participants. Prevention and early detection are the key objectives. Cervical cancer screening with PAP tests can detect cell changes and precancerous lesions associated with persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus.

All women should have regular PAP tests starting at age 21 if they have a known history of any kind of sexual activity. PAP tests can find cell changes early, long before there are any symptoms and before a diagnosis of cancer. With regular PAP tests and the HPV vaccine, it is possible to prevent cervical cancer.

Appointment Information and Follow Up

Appointments for your PAP testing can by made by calling the office at (416) 603-5888.  You may request a female health care provider for you PAP testing. PAP test results are available 4-6 weeks after your test.  Your physician will review them and you will be called if any follow up is needed.

Letters

As part of cervical cancer screening program, a letter with the most up-to-date screening guidelines is being sent to our patients. If you have lost your copy of the letter or have not received it yet, please refer to the PDF copy below.

HPV Vaccine

The HPV vaccine is a major breakthrough in cancer prevention. The HPV vaccine Gardasil is the vaccine used in Ontario's HPV immunization program. The vaccine protects against four types of HPV — types 6, 11, 16 and 18. Two of these cause 70% of cervical cancers and the other two cause 90% of genital warts.

Three doses of the vaccine are required for complete protection. The HPV vaccine has been approved for use in more than 100 countries, and more than 40 million doses have been distributed worldwide. The HPV vaccine is approved for females aged 9 to 45 and for males aged 9 to 26.

HPV immunization as well as regular PAP tests (starting at age 21) can reduce the risk of cervical cancer in women. (From Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care Website)

Video

Dr. Mike Evans - “Should You Get the HPV Vaccine”?

Links