According to current WHO guidance on cervical cancer screening, which modality is recommended as the primary screening test in programmes with limited cytology infrastructure?
- A Conventional Pap cytology every 3 years
- B High-risk HPV DNA testing every 5 to 10 years ✓
- C Visual inspection with Lugol's iodine every 5 years
- D Colposcopy of all women aged 30 to 49 years
Correct answer: B. High-risk HPV DNA testing every 5 to 10 years
Explanation
WHO recommends HPV DNA testing as the primary screening method because its higher sensitivity permits longer screening intervals, fewer visits, and use of self-sampling where access is poor. VIA lacks objectivity and reproducibility and has lower sensitivity than HPV testing, though it remains a stopgap where molecular tests are unavailable. Colposcopy is reserved for triage, not population screening.
Reference: WHO Guideline for Screening and Treatment of Cervical Pre-Cancer Lesions, 2nd ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.