As per standard recommendations for cervical cancer screening by cytology (Pap smear), once a woman has had two consecutive normal annual smears, subsequent screening should be done:
- A Every year until age 70
- B Every 3 years up to age 65 ✓
- C Every 5 years up to age 49
- D No further screening is required
Correct answer: B. Every 3 years up to age 65
Explanation
Classical cytology-based screening guidance states that after two satisfactory negative smears taken one year apart, screening can be extended to 3-yearly intervals and continued up to 65 years of age. Stopping entirely at any point is incorrect because the interval between precursor lesion and invasive cancer still permits detection, and annual screening beyond two negatives adds cost with minimal additional yield.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.