CHDS’ Emily Burger, Jane Kim, Stephen Sy, and Allison Portnoy collaborated with researchers at the University of Oslo to assess the optimal starting age and frequency of cervical cancer screening among women who have received the HPV vaccine. Using an individual-based mathematical model and government health data from Norway, the researchers simulated seven cohorts of women vaccinated from ages 12-30 to compare outcomes using different screening frequencies. They specifically examined the health impacts and cost-effectiveness of less-frequent screening than the every 3-5 years currently recommended by the American Cancer Society.
Their model showed that women who received the HPV vaccine before age 30 could safely receive only two or three cervical cancer screenings over the course of their lifetimes, and the younger they are when vaccinated, the longer they can go between screenings. Those vaccinated between ages 25 and 30 years could be screened every 10 years; while those vaccinated before age 19 could be screened every 20-25 years, with either two or three lifetime screens.
The researchers’ aim was to provide evidence to inform screening guidelines for vaccinated women. They caution that screening is an individual choice and should take into account individual risk factors.
Learn more: Read the publication, Optimizing Cervical Cancer Screening by Age at Vaccination for Human Papillomavirus: Health and Resource Implications
Learn more: Read the Harvard Chan School press release, HPV-Vaccinated Women May Require Fewer Cervical Cancer Screenings
Related news: Disparities in Cervical Cancer Elimination
Related news: CHDS at International HPV Meeting in Scotland