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Objectives: The objectives of the study were to assess the prevalence of abnormal Pap smears and their quality metrics in a tertiary health-care facility in the western region of Saudi Arabia and to share our data with other researchers in Saudi Arabia to potentially establish benchmark data based on a Saudi population. Material and Methods: A retrospective study was carried out by the Department of Pathology at King Fahd Armed Forces Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on Pap smear statistics for 14,376 Pap smears of both conventional and liquid-based cytology (LBC) between 2010 and 2022. Results: The prevalence of abnormal Pap smears of both conventional and LBC was 3.05% (438 Pap smears). The percentages of adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma were 0.08% and 0.02%, respectively, and the ratio of atypical squamous cells (ASCs) to squamous intraepithelial lesions (SILs) (ASC/SIL) was 2.61. Conclusion: The prevalence of abnormal Pap smears and the ASC/SIL ratio were consistent with the international benchmark data provided by the College of American Pathologists for each preparation type and within the range of the data provided by published studies, highlighting the need for greater focus on glandular abnormalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: The performance parameters of cervical cytology in any accredited cytology laboratory requires implementation of quality control exercise, which ensures acceptable performance by a laboratory. This study aims to assess the analytical aspect of quality control measures by evaluating the frequency and accuracy of epithelial abnormalities as detected in cervical Pap smears using histopathologic diagnosis as the gold standard. Methods: A retrospective diagnostic test study from 2018 to 2020 was conducted. Out of the total 6000 Pap smears, histopathologic correlation was available in 150 cases in the form of colposcopic-directed biopsy (CDB) and loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) tissue in 105 cases. The quality control measures analyzed were Atypical Squamous Cell: Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion (ASC:SIL) ratio, cyto-histo correlation, and study parameters like sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of Pap smears as against CDB and LEEP. Results: 4.5% smears were reported as inadequate, 92.3% as Negative for intraepithelial lesion or malignancy (NILM), followed by epithelial abnormality found in 3.21%. The ASC:SIL ratio was 1.3:1. Concordance rate against CDB was 100% in Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), 82.35% in high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL), 82% in atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS), 65.6% in low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL), and 50% in Atypical Squamous Cell ,High grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion can not be ruled out (ASC-H). Total concordance rate was 84.15%. Sensitivity of Pap smear was 65% for LSIL and 82% for HSIL. Specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were 63.63%, 90%, and 75%, respectively. Concordance rate was 96% with LEEP. Conclusion: Quality control measures give an insight of performance of any accredited cytology laboratory. This exercise needs to be conducted on a regular basis, so that relevant steps can be taken in case of major discrepancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: The performance parameters of cervical cytology in any accredited cytology laboratory requires implementation of quality control exercise, which ensures acceptable performance by a laboratory. This study aims to assess the analytical aspect of quality control measures by evaluating the frequency and accuracy of epithelial abnormalities as detected in cervical Pap smears using histopathologic diagnosis as the gold standard. Methods: A retrospective diagnostic test study from 2018 to 2020 was conducted. Out of the total 6000 Pap smears, histopathologic correlation was available in 150 cases in the form of colposcopic-directed biopsy (CDB) and loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) tissue in 105 cases. The quality control measures analyzed were Atypical Squamous Cell: Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion (ASC:SIL) ratio, cyto-histo correlation, and study parameters like sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of Pap smears as against CDB and LEEP. Results: 4.5% smears were reported as inadequate, 92.3% as Negative for intraepithelial lesion or malignancy (NILM), followed by epithelial abnormality found in 3.21%. The ASC:SIL ratio was 1.3:1. Concordance rate against CDB was 100% in Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), 82.35% in high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL), 82% in atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS), 65.6% in low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL), and 50% in Atypical Squamous Cell ,High grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion can not be ruled out (ASC-H). Total concordance rate was 84.15%. Sensitivity of Pap smear was 65% for LSIL and 82% for HSIL. Specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were 63.63%, 90%, and 75%, respectively. Concordance rate was 96% with LEEP. Conclusion: Quality control measures give an insight of performance of any accredited cytology laboratory. This exercise needs to be conducted on a regular basis, so that relevant steps can be taken in case of major discrepancy.

Cervical cancer is considered the most common human papillomavirus (HPV)–associated disease in women. Primary and secondary prevention methods have been established through Pap tests, HPV molecular testing, and vaccines. Although the most common high-risk HPV (HR-HPV) genotypes in the United States are 16, 18, and 45, there is reported ethnic disparity in the distribution of these genotypes. Data analysis of HPV genotype results on cervical pap tests in our institution between late 2018 and early 2020 was performed. The distribution of HPV genotypes in each Bethesda category was evaluated. A total of 13,160 smears were evaluated; 75.5% were from African American women. Of those tested for HR-HPV (10,060), 1412 (14%) were HR-HPV positive. In all diagnostic categories of the Bethesda classification system, non-16/18/45 HR-HPV genotypes were more prevalent, ranging from 60.8% even in high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion to 90.4% in negative for intraepithelial lesion or malignancy. In this study with a predominantly African American population, non-16/18/45 HR-HPV genotypes were prevalent in the majority (60.8%) of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion cases. Ethnic variability should be considered when deciding which HPV genotypes to integrate into the HPV vaccine. • The distribution of human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes in each Bethesda category of cervical Pap tests in our institution (Grady Memorial Hospital, Atlanta, GA) between late 2018 and early 2020 was analyzed. • A total of 13,160 Pap smears were evaluated and 75.5% were from African American women. • Overall, HPV 16/18/45 positivity accounted for 18% of all high-risk HPV–positive cases while non-16/18/45 high-risk HPV genotypes accounted for 82%. • Across each of the diagnostic categories of the Bethesda classification system, non-16/18/45 high-risk HPV genotypes were more prevalent, ranging from 60.8% even in high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion to 90.4% in negative for intraepithelial lesion or malignancy, and this difference was significantly different in almost all the Bethesda categories. • Ethnic variability should be considered when deciding which HPV genotypes to integrate into the HPV vaccine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cervical Papanicolaou (PAP) smear is the simplest, minimal invasive, and excellent screening method to reduce the female morbidity and mortality due to cervical carcinoma. Immediate alcohol fixation of the cervical smears is required to preserve nuclear details, delay in alcohol fixation leads to air drying artifacts. Rehydrating of the air-dried cervical pap smear with normal saline can help to overcome these artifacts and also have its own advantages. Aims: This study was design to evaluate the effects, merits and pitfalls of normal saline Rehydrated Air-Dried Cervical PAP Smears (RADPS) compared with the Conventional Papanicolaou Smear (C-PAPS). Settings and Design: Comparative study. Methods and Material: Prospectively paired cervical smears of 100 women, who presented to the outpatient department of gynecology of our institute, were prepared. Alcohol fixed smears were labelled as conventional Papanicolaou smear (C-PAPS) and air-dried smears labelled as rehydrated air-dried PAP smears (RADPS). Eight cytomorphological parameters were considered for comparison and analyzed. Statistical analysis used: Chisquare (χ2)/Fisher exact test. Results: Clear background with red blood cells (RBC) lysis was noted in 93% of RADPS and 54% of C-PAPS. Cytolysis was observed more in C-PAPS (18%) than in RADPS (08%). Air-drying artifacts observed in 30% of C-PAPS and 08% of RADPS. Cytoplasmic staining (92% of RADPS and 85% of C-PAPS) was superior in RADPS. Cell border, nuclear chromatin, and border were also better appreciated on RADPS as compared to C-PAPS. Statistically significant difference was observed with 3 parameters, i.e., air-drying artifacts, RBC background, and distinct cell borders. Conclusion: Rehydration of air-dried smears can be adopted in regular practice, as an alternative or coupled with conventional wet fixation method to overcome the commonly faced problems of air-drying artifacts, especially in rural screening programs.

BackgroundAn integration of message framing and sociocultural literature suggests that ethnic health disparities may be reduced by incorporating minority groups' cultural values into persuasive health messages. Framing messages with metaphors represents one promising strategy for harnessing cultural values to change health outcomes. Still, the effectiveness of metaphoric health messages in minority populations has received virtually no empirical attention.PurposeTo fill this gap, the present study tested whether a health message using a cancer-screening metaphor targeting collectivism and familism values would engage individual differences in these values to predict Papanicolaou (Pap) smear intentions among Latinas.MethodsLatina women (N = 168) completed an online survey including measures of collectivism and familism. They were randomized to read a message about Pap smears featuring the metaphor the body is a family or no metaphor before reporting their Pap smear intentions.ResultsRegression analyses revealed a pattern of interactions suggesting metaphoric messages engage targeted cultural values: For Latinas reading the family metaphor message, collectivism and familism positively predicted Pap smear intentions, whereas for Latinas reading the no-metaphor message, these values did not predict intentions.ConclusionsThis study offers a foundation for further examination of the potential for metaphoric health messages that connect to cultural values to reduce ethnic health disparities. Implications and directions for future research are discussed.

Screenwide is a case-control study (2017–2021) including women with incident endometrial and ovarian cancers (EC and OC), BRCA1/2 and MMR pathogenic variant carriers, and age-matched controls from three centers in Spain. Participants completed a personal interview on their sociodemographic factors, occupational exposure, medication, lifestyle, and medical history. We collected biological specimens, including blood samples, self-collected vaginal specimens, cervical pap-brush samples, uterine specimens, and, when available, tumor samples. The planned analyses included evaluation of the potential risk factors for EC/OC; evaluation of molecular biomarkers in minimally invasive samples; evaluation of the cost-effectiveness of molecular tests; and the generation of predictive scores to integrate different epidemiologic, clinical, and molecular factors. Overall, 182 EC, 69 OC, 98 BRCA pathogenic variant carriers, 104 MMR pathogenic variant carriers, and 385 controls were enrolled. The overall participation rate was 85.7%. The pilot study using 61 samples from nine EC cases and four controls showed that genetic variants at the variant allele fraction > 5% found in tumors (n = 61 variants across the nine tumors) were detected in paired endometrial aspirates, clinician-collected cervical samples, and vaginal self-samples with detection rates of 90% (55/61), 79% (48/61), and 72% (44/61) by duplex sequencing, respectively. Among the controls, only one somatic mutation was detected in a cervical sample. We enrolled more than 800 women to evaluate new early detection strategies. The preliminary data suggest that our methodological approach could be useful for the early detection of gynecological cancers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While Asian Indians (AIs) are the third fastest-growing Asian minority population in the United States, they fall short of the Healthy People cervical cancer screening target goals, with rates averaging 70% compared to 83% among non-Hispanic Whites. The purpose of this systematic review is to examine factors influencing cervical cancer screening behaviors among AIs in the US. Medline, CINAHL, PubMed, PsychINFO, and ProQuest databases were searched for qualitative and quantitative studies conducted between 1990 and 2017 that focused on cervical cancer screening behaviors among AIs in the US. The seven selected quantitative cross-sectional descriptive studies show that acculturation, length of stay in the US, age, education level, employment, cultural beliefs, and language influence cervical cancer screening behaviors among AIs in the US. Results from this systematic review inform development of culturally sensitive interventions to raise awareness and engagement in cervical cancer screening among AIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cervical cancer in women is the second most common cancer and the commonest cause of mortality in developing countries. The introduction of Pap smear test changed the scenario of cervical cancer with an intense drop in the incidence and mortality due to invasive cervical cancer. Aims and Objective: To evaluate the patterns of cervical smear cytology and to correlate the cervical smear diagnosis with histopathological diagnosis and to assess the efficacy of Pap smears in diagnosing cervical lesions. Materials and Methods: This two-year retrospective study (January 2018 to December 2019) was done in the department of Pathology in a tertiary care hospital. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy were calculated considering histopathological diagnosis of cervical biopsy as the gold standard. Results: A total of 316 Pap smears were studied, out of which we selected 154 cases who also undergone biopsy or hysterectomy. Epithelial cell abnormalities (ECA) were found in 28 cases (18.2%). Among this the most common ECA was Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS) seen in 10 cases (6.5%) followed by LSIL (5.2%), HSIL (3.2%) and SCC of cervix (3.2%). The overall correlation between cervical cytology and histopathology was found in 125 out of 154 cases (81.16%). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy of pap smear was 90.57%, 62.50%, 95.41%, 43.47% and 87.66% respectively. Conclusion: Pap smear is a simple, safe, non-invasive and effective method for detection of lesions of the cervix and ECA. Hence, better awareness and periodical cytological screening programs can help in the early detection of malignant cervical lesions and thereby reducing the morbidity and mortality related to this malignancy.

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Background: Papanicolaou (Pap) smear is a very important screening tool for cervical cancer. The challenge for Pap smear is a high rate of false-negative results. Of the several factors compounding this problem the most important one is the incorrect sampling method and sampling tool limitations. We in the present study tried to evaluate the quality of Pap smear samples obtained by two methods Ayres Spatula and Ayres spatula plus cytobrush combination. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and gynecology, Prathima Institute of Medical Sciences, Nagunoor, Karimnagar. The patients were selected from those who were attending the OPD of the Department of gynecology. A total of n=155 women who were sexually active in reproductive age or menopausal were included in the study. Two samples were taken first using Ayres spatula and then the cytobrush. Results: With cytobrush and Ayres spatula n=135(87.09%) of smear were satisfactory compared to the n=98(63.22%) with Ayres spatula alone the p values were found the

Cervical cancer, caused due to oncogenic types of human papillomavirus (HPV), is a leading preventable cause of cancer morbidity and mortality globally. Chronic, persistent HPV infection-induced cervical precursor lesions, if left undetected and untreated, can progress to invasive cancer. Cervical cancer screening approaches have evolved from cytology (Papanicolaou test) to highly sensitive HPV-based molecular methods and personalized, risk-stratified, management guidelines. Innovations like self-collection of samples to increase screening access, innovative triage methods to optimize management of screen positives, and scalable and efficacious precancer treatment approaches will be key to further enhance the utility of prevention interventions., Competing Interests: Disclosure The Author has no financial conflicts of interest to disclose. The opinions expressed by the Author are his own and this material should not be interpreted as representing the official viewpoint of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the National Institutes of Health, or the National Cancer Institute., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Cervical cancer in women is the second most common cancer and the commonest cause of mortality in developing countries. The introduction of Pap smear test changed the scenario of cervical cancer with an intense drop in the incidence and mortality due to invasive cervical cancer. Aims and Objective: To evaluate the patterns of cervical smear cytology and to correlate the cervical smear diagnosis with histopathological diagnosis and to assess the efficacy of Pap smears in diagnosing cervical lesions. Materials and Methods: This two-year retrospective study (January 2018 to December 2019) was done in the department of Pathology in a tertiary care hospital. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy were calculated considering histopathological diagnosis of cervical biopsy as the gold standard. Results: A total of 316 Pap smears were studied, out of which we selected 154 cases who also undergone biopsy or hysterectomy. Epithelial cell abnormalities (ECA) were found in 28 cases (18.2%). Among this the most common ECA was Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS) seen in 10 cases (6.5%) followed by Low grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) (5.2%), High grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) (3.2%) and SCC of cervix (3.2%). The overall correlation between cervical cytology and histopathology was found in 125 out of 154 cases (81.16%). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy of pap smear was 90.57%, 62.50%, 95.41%, 43.47% and 87.66% respectively. Conclusion: Pap smear is a simple, safe, non-invasive and effective method for detection of lesions of the cervix and ECA. Hence, better awareness and periodical cytological screening programs can help in the early detection of malignant cervical lesions and thereby reducing the morbidity and mortality related to this malignancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Carcinoma cervix is among a curable cancer, if identified at an early stage. Pap smear is a simple, safe, noninvasive, outdoor and effective method for detection of lesions of the cervix but it fails to localize the lesion. Cervical biopsy, on the other hand is a gold standard but invasive technique.Materials and Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was done in Nobel medical college from January 16, 2017 to January 15, 2018 where all pap smears received in a Department of Pathology were included in the study. However, only cases that had undergone both Pap smear and cervical biopsy were compared. Out of the 1492 pap smears, 118 cases underwent biopsy. Correlation was then done regarding cytological and histological diagnosis.Results: Majority of the cytological findings were normal. 7 patients of HSIL revealed moderate dysplasia and higher lesions in biopsy. 2 cases were that of adenocarcinoma which were diagnosed as inflammatory smear in Pap smear.Conclusion: Cervical Pap smear is reliable screening test to identify high grade squamous cell lesions and carcinoma, but it fails to localize the lesion and adenocarcinoma is hard to identify in a pap smear. Hence, cervical biopsy should be carried out to confirm the findings of Pap smear and in case of strong clinical suspicion.

Abstract Background Cancer screening awareness and participation may be lower in low- and middle-income countries that lack established national screening programmes compared with those that do. We evaluated potential determinants of awareness about and participation in breast and cervical cancer screening, and breast self-examination (BSE) in women using survey data from Indonesia. Methods From the fifth Indonesian Family Life Survey (2014–2015), a total of 5397 women aged 40 and older without any history of cancer who responded to questionnaires concerning Pap smears, mammography, and BSE were included. Multilevel modelling was used to assess potential determinants in relation to awareness about Pap smears and mammography, and participation in Pap smears and BSE practice. Multivariable analyses were performed to identify independent predictors of cancer screening. Results Of the 5397 respondents, 1058 (20%) women were aware of Pap smears, of which 297 had never had the procedure. Only 251 (5%) participants were aware of mammography. A total of 605 (12%) of women reported they performed BSE. Higher education and household expenditure were consistently associated with higher odds of awareness about Pap smears and mammography (e.g. odds ratio [OR] of being aware of Pap smear and mammography: 7.82 (95% CI: 6.30–9.70) and 7.70 (6.19–9.58), respectively, for high school graduates compared to women with less educational attainment in the multivariable models), and participation in Pap smears and BSE. We also identified enabling factors linked with greater cancer screening awareness and participation, including health insurance, shorter distance to health services, and social participation. Conclusion There are socioeconomic disparities in cancer screening awareness and participation among Indonesian women. Our findings may help inform targeted health promotion and screening for cancer in the presence of limited resources.

Context: Papanicolaou (Pap) smear is an effective exfoliative cytological investigation done for early recognition of cervical cancer. It also plays role in diagnosis of inflammatory lesions of cervix. Aims: The aim of this study is (1) to compare the cytomorphological features in conventional Pap smear (C-PAPS) and rehydrated air-dried Pap smear (RADPS) and (2) to evaluate the efficacy of RADPS in cytodiagnosis of cervical lesion by comparing with cytomorphological features of conventional wet-fixed Pap smear. Subjects and Methods: Paired cervical smears were prepared for 247 patients. One was labeled as C-PAPS and another was labeled as RADPS. Comparison of both smears was done for various cytomorphological parameters. Results: Out of 247 smears, 2.4% RADPS and 7.3% C-PAPS were reported as unsatisfactory. Red blood cell (RBC) background was present in 2% of RADPS and 42% of C-PAPS. Cytolysis and air-drying artifact were observed more in C-PAPS amounting to 2% and 4% in RADPS and 11% and 15% in C-PAPS. Cytoplasmic staining (97% RADPS vs. 94% C-PAPS) was superior in RADPS. Cell border, nuclear border, and chromatin of squamous and endocervical cells were better appreciated on RADPS compared to C-PAPS, and also statistically significant difference was observed. Conclusion: Rehydrated air-dried technique can be satisfactory alternative for conventional wet fixation method which can be followed routinely or in conjugation with C-PAPS, especially in cervical screening programs.

Endometrial carcinoma is less common than cervical cancer but the disadvantage is that there is no mass screening method that can be used for early detection or prevention. The Papanicolaou (Pap) smear is useful for screening and preventing cervical cancer but occasionally also detects endometrial cancer, usually in advanced stages. Here we describe a case of endometrial cancer which was not detected in the initial Pap smear of a 40 year old woman. She had Low-Grade Intraepithelial Squamous Lesion (LSIL) with normal endocervical cells in the initial smear. Since she participated in a cervical cancer prevention study with antimicrobials and turmeric extract, her Pap smear was repeated within 5 weeks. Endometrial adenocarcinoma was clearly suspected in this follow-up Pap smear and the case was subsequently investigated and confirmed as Endometrial carcinoma. This case is presented for its rarity of clinical features: younger age, absence of common risk factors, and early detection because of cervical cancer prevention programs. A review of the literature reveals the potential of curcumin and turmeric extracts in controlling gynaecological cancers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the anatomical continuity of the uterine cavity with the cervix, genomic exploitation of material from routine Pap smears and other noninvasive sampling methods represent a unique opportunity to detect signs of disease using biological material shed from the upper genital tract. Recent research findings offer a promising perspective in the detection of endometrial cancer, but certain questions need to be addressed in order to accelerate the implementation of novel technologies in a routine screening or clinical setting. We discuss here new perspectives on detection of endometrial cancer using genomic and other biomarkers in minimally invasive sampling methods with a special focus on public health classic screening criteria, highlighting current gaps in knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conventional cytology is one of the most used techniques, being widely accepted, inexpensive, and with control mechanisms. With the objective of alleviating the workload of to experts, some researchers have proposed the development of tools for computer vision to detect and classify the transformations in the cells of the cervix region. In this paper, is presented the use of the support vector machines (SVM) as a computational method for classification of cervical cells in normal and abnormal conditions, based solely on the extracted features of the region occupied by the nucleus without use of the characteristics of the cytoplasm. The importance of this approach lies in that the nuclei are the region that can be more easily segmented into complex images Pap smear. These images show a high degree of overlapping cells and is difficult to distinguish the exact boundaries of the regions occupied by the cytoplasm. As of study between the linear and RBF kernels on function AUC measures as F, H and half negative predictability was found that performed well RBF values keeping 0.91% AUC. The results indicate a reduction from the rate of false negative Pap test. H mean was used in order to compare the results of SVM with RBF kernel respect to other investigations, obtaining 91.28% above the same.

Context: Papanicolaou (Pap) smear is an effective exfoliative cytological investigation done for early recognition of cervical cancer. It also plays role in diagnosis of inflammatory lesions of cervix. Aims: The aim of this study is (1) to compare the cytomorphological features in conventional Pap smear (C-PAPS) and rehydrated air-dried Pap smear (RADPS) and (2) to evaluate the efficacy of RADPS in cytodiagnosis of cervical lesion by comparing with cytomorphological features of conventional wet-fixed Pap smear. Subjects and Methods: Paired cervical smears were prepared for 247 patients. One was labeled as C-PAPS and another was labeled as RADPS. Comparison of both smears was done for various cytomorphological parameters. Results: Out of 247 smears, 2.4% RADPS and 7.3% C-PAPS were reported as unsatisfactory. Red blood cell (RBC) background was present in 2% of RADPS and 42% of C-PAPS. Cytolysis and air-drying artifact were observed more in C-PAPS amounting to 2% and 4% in RADPS and 11% and 15% in C-PAPS. Cytoplasmic staining (97% RADPS vs. 94% C-PAPS) was superior in RADPS. Cell border, nuclear border, and chromatin of squamous and endocervical cells were better appreciated on RADPS compared to C-PAPS, and also statistically significant difference was observed. Conclusion: Rehydrated air-dried technique can be satisfactory alternative for conventional wet fixation method which can be followed routinely or in conjugation with C-PAPS, especially in cervical screening programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The cervical Pap smear test is a standard screening procedure used for cervical cytology testing for the diagnosis of premalignant and malignant cervical lesions .The risk factors for cervical cancer are early age at first intercourse, multiple sexual partners, nutritional status, hormonal changes, parity, host immune status, smoking, viral oncogenic Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLA) types and coinfection with other viruses such as human immunedeficiency virus-1 and herpes simplex virus. Aim: is to study the relation of some of the marriage variants as risk factors for cervical cancer with abnormal Pap smears results for women in Nineveh governorate. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out on patients' women attended the Obstetric and Gynecological Mosul Hospitals for the period from June 2013 through June 2014, after the collection of data through direct meeting and a questionnaire comprising patients' characteristics and the results of Pap smear. Five hundred fifty one Pap smears were collected from women between the ages of 11 and 76 years. The personal characteristics of women included the mean age at 1st marriage which was 18.9 years; 18.8 years mean age of duration of marriage, and mean age at 1st delivery as 20.3 years. Other features included the sequences among wives or husbands which were found to be higher in 1st sequence (who had one husband or those who her husbands never had another wife): 464, 84.21% and 508, 92.20% respectively. Results: abnormal Pap smears were 99/551(17.97%). A significant relation were observed between abnormal Pap smear in highest percentage at age (25-45) years 51.52% (P=0.032), and mean age at early forty 41.6± 12.21(P=0.002). The highest rate of women with epithelial abnormal Pap smears results were 1st sequence among wives and husbands (79.80% and 91.92% respectively). The mean ± SD of women with epithelial abnormal Pap smears were 18.3 ± 4.66 years of age at 1st marriage, and 19.7 ± 4.90 years of age at 1st delivery. Non-significant relation was detected between abnormal Pap smears and each of (the sequence among wives or husbands, age at 1st marriage, and at 1st delivery). Mean ± SD of women with epithelial abnormal Pap smears results were 21.1 ± 12.41years of duration of marriage, and there was significant effect for duration of marriage by using the same test between the two mean ages (P=0.028). Conclusion: the age, and duration of marriage were strongly related to abnormal cervical Pap smear results, while age at 1st marriage , 1st delivery , sequence among wives or husbands were not related with epithelial abnormal cervical Pap smear in Nineveh governorate women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: African American youth are among those at greatest risk for experiencing violence victimization. Notably, the mortality rate of cervical cancer for African American women is also twice that of white women. To date, we know of no literature using longitudinal data to examine how violence victimization relates to Papanicolaou (Pap) smear results or cervical cancer in this population. Our study examines how violence victimization during adolescence (age 15 to 18) influences psychological distress, perceived social support, heavy substance abuse, and sexual risk behaviors during emerging adulthood (age 20 to 23), and subsequent Pap smear outcomes during young adulthood (age 29 to 32). Method: This study is based on 12 waves of data collected in a longitudinal study of 360 African American women from mid-adolescence (ninth grade, mean age = 14.8 years) to young adulthood (mean age = 32.0 years). We used structural equation modeling analysis to examine the hypothesized model. Result: Violence victimization during adolescence had a direct effect on decreased social support, increased psychological distress, and increased heavy cigarette use during emerging adulthood. Better social support was also associated with fewer sexual partners during emerging adulthood and lower odds of abnormal Pap smear results during young adulthood. The effect of violence victimization on abnormal Pap smear was mediated by social support. Conclusion: Our results show that violence victimization during adolescence has long-term negative effects through multiple pathways that persist into adulthood. Our findings also suggest that social support may help to compensate against other risk factors. Interventions designed to address the perceived support may help victims cope with their experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: This study was to assess the intention of undergoing Pap testing and to identify influencing factors of HPV knowledge and their attitude related to Pap test by sexual activity among unmarried nurses. METHODS: A cross sectional survey design was employed, utilizing a self-administered questionnaire amongst 343 unmarried nurses. Descriptive statistics was utilized to analyze data and inferential statistics used an independent-t test and chi2 test for the differences in measurement variables, and odds ratios for factors on intention of Pap testing by sexual activity. RESULTS: Nurses not sexually active were significantly higher in intention of Pap testing (chi2=40.15, p

Managing work and health care can be a struggle for many American workers. This paper explored the relationship between having paid sick leave and receiving preventive health care services, and hypothesized that those without paid sick leave would be less likely to obtain a range of preventive care services. In 2016, cross-sectional data from a sample of 13,545 adults aged 18-64 with current paid employment from the 2015 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) were examined to determine the relationship between having paid sick leave and obtaining eight preventive care services including: (1) blood pressure check; (2) cholesterol check; (3) fasting blood sugar check; (4) having a flu shot; (5) having seen a doctor for a medical visit; (6) getting a Pap test; (7) getting a mammogram; (8) getting tested for colon cancer. Findings from multivariable logistic regressions, holding 10 demographic, work, income, and medical related variables stable, found respondents without paid sick leave were significantly less likely to report having used six of eight preventive health services in the last 12months. The significant findings remained robust even for workers who had reported having been previously told they had risk factors related to the preventive services. These findings support the idea that without access to paid sick leave, American workers risk foregoing preventive health care which could lead to the need for medical care at later stages of disease progression and at a higher cost for workers and the American health care system as a whole. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Exfoliated endometrial cells can be seen in cervical smears in association with a wide variety of conditions ranging from normal proliferative endometrium to endometrial malignancies. It is often difficult to differentiate between benign, atypical and malignant endometrial cells using cytomorphology alone. This study was conducted to evaluate if morphometric analysis of endometrial nuclei on liquid-based cervical samples could be of help in differentiating between these endometrial cells. Materials and methods Three groups of cervical samples with histopathological correlation were selected: Group A: showing benign endometrial cells; Group B: showing atypical endometrial cells and Group C: showing malignant endometrial cells. There were 30 cases each in Group A and B and 39 cases in Group C. Image J, NIH, USA was used for selecting the endometrial nuclei and performing the morphometric measurements. MANOVA was used for statistical analysis. Results The mean nuclear area and nuclear perimeter were significantly different between the three groups of endometrial cells with a P-value <0.05. However, the mean standard deviation of the nuclear area ( SDNA) was not significantly different between atypical and malignant endometrial cells ( P = 0.765) and the mean nuclear diameter was not statistically different between benign and atypical cells ( P = 0.112). Also, the difference in the mean integrated gray density amongst all three groups was not statistically significant ( P = 0.397, 0.844, 0.732). Conclusion We conclude that the morphometric parameters of the nuclear area and nuclear perimeter are helpful in differentiating between benign, atypical and malignant endometrial nuclei even in liquid-based cervical cytology samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early detection through screening can reduce mortality rates of cervical cancer, and yet Hispanic women who have incidence rates higher than their non-Hispanic White counterparts are least likely to participate in cancer screening initiatives. This study utilized data from the 2008 wave of the Health and Retirement Study to investigate the psychosocial correlates associated with older Hispanic women’s participation in cervical cancer screening services. Logistic regression models were used. Findings indicated that greater life satisfaction and religiosity were associated with a greater likelihood of participating in cervical cancer screening. Despite ongoing national conversations, evidence indicates there is agreement that underserved women need to be screened, particularly the older Hispanic population. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Routine pelvic examinations have been a fundamental part of the annual female examination. The 2014 American College of Physicians (ACP) guideline recommends against routine pelvic examinations in asymptomatic, nonpregnant, average-risk women. Our aim was to evaluate women's attitudes and beliefs about pelvic examinations and how knowledge of the new guidelines contributes to attitudes and beliefs. A descriptive cross-sectional study was performed using a self-administered written survey developed through literature review and pretested and revised on the basis of staff suggestions. Nonpregnant women age≥21years presenting to outpatient clinics at Mayo Clinic in Arizona or Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, received the survey. After being asked about pelvic examination practices and beliefs, participants were informed of the ACP guideline, to determine effect on attitudes and beliefs. Demographic characteristics and pertinent medical history questions were collected from participants. In total, 671 women who were predominantly white, married, and educated completed surveys. Participants described pelvic examinations as reassuring, and a majority believed the examinations were useful in detecting ovarian cancer (74.6%), necessary for screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) (71.0%), or necessary before initiating contraception (67.0%). After reading the 2014 ACP guideline, significantly fewer women planned to continue yearly pelvic examinations (P<0.001). Despite evidence to the contrary, women believed pelvic examinations were necessary for STI screening, contraception initiation, and ovarian cancer detection. After education on the ACP screening guideline, fewer women planned to continue yearly pelvic examinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]