For women aged 21-29, which statement best reflects HPV screening recommendations?

For women aged 21-29, which statement best reflects HPV screening recommendations?

• A. Pap test with cytology every 3 years; frequency does not change with normal screens
• B. Annual HPV screening is recommended
• C. Co-testing every 5 years
• D. Pap test every 2 years

Answer: (A)

For someone 21–29, screening relies on cytology alone. HPV infections are common in this age group and most clear on their own, so using HPV testing as a routine screen would lead to unnecessary follow-up and anxiety without improving cancer prevention. The best approach is a Pap test with cytology every 3 years, and this interval stays the same regardless of normal results. Starting at age 30, guidelines allow either cytology alone every 3 years or co-testing with HPV plus cytology every 5 years. Annual HPV screening or Pap testing every 2 years aren’t recommended for this age group, and routine co-testing isn’t indicated here.

For someone 21–29, screening relies on cytology alone. HPV infections are common in this age group and most clear on their own, so using HPV testing as a routine screen would lead to unnecessary follow-up and anxiety without improving cancer prevention. The best approach is a Pap test with cytology every 3 years, and this interval stays the same regardless of normal results. Starting at age 30, guidelines allow either cytology alone every 3 years or co-testing with HPV plus cytology every 5 years. Annual HPV screening or Pap testing every 2 years aren’t recommended for this age group, and routine co-testing isn’t indicated here.