The primary HPV screening-based cervical cancer screening programme in India under the National Cancer Grid recommends initiating co-testing (HPV + cytology) at what age for average-risk women?
- A 21 years
- B 30 years ✓
- C 25 years
- D 35 years
Correct answer: B. 30 years
Explanation
Current Indian guidelines (National Cancer Grid, aligned with WHO 2021 recommendations) recommend initiating cervical cancer screening at 30 years of age for average-risk women, using HPV DNA testing as the primary modality, with co-testing or cytology as alternatives. Screening below 30 in low-resource settings is not recommended due to high prevalence of transient HPV infections in younger women that spontaneously clear.
Reference: Shaw's Textbook of Gynaecology, 17th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.