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Cervical cancer is a significant global health concern that affects millions of women each year. While it is a highly preventable and treatable disease when caught early, it remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women, particularly in developing countries with limited access to healthcare resources [1]. Timely and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management and improved patient outcomes. In recent years, advancements in medical technology and diagnostic methods have revolutionized the way cervical cancer is detected and diagnosed [2]. Cervical cancer as a public health problem, the World Health Organization (WHO) steered a global health strategy, being the first time ever that the world has committed to eliminate a cancer. Indeed, cervical cancer is both preventable and treatable, and the reduction of its burden includes tertiary interventions ranging from primary prevention strategies to screening campaigns, to effective treatment options Infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV) is a necessary cause of cervical cancer, with 12 oncogenic HPV types classified as group 1 carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer Vaccination against HPV has proven to offer protective benefits in the reduction of neoplastic lesions’ incidence. Again, robust evidence supports the importance of cervical screening for the early detection of cancerous lesions, which positively impacts on invasive cervical cancers’ occurrence and mortality [4, 5].

Pap smear test: A foundational diagnostic tool

The Pap smear, also known as Pap test, has been a cornerstone of cervical cancer diagnosis for decades. This simple and cost-effective test involves collecting cells from the cervix to identify any abnormal changes that might indicate the presence of precancerous or cancerous cells. However, despite its wide use, the Pap smear has certain limitations, such as a relatively high rate of false negatives and the need for skilled technicians to interpret the results accurately [6].

HPV Testing: A game-changer in early detection

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a known precursor to cervical cancer. HPV testing has gained prominence as a valuable tool for identifying high-risk strains of the virus that are linked to the development of cervical cancer. Unlike the Pap smear, HPV testing directly detects the presence of the virus's genetic material in cervical cells, providing a more sensitive and reliable indicator of cervical cancer risk. It also enables risk stratification and better allocation of resources for follow-up and treatment [7].

Liquid-based cytology: Enhancing pap smears accuracy

To address some of the limitations of traditional Pap smears, liquid-based cytology (LBC) has emerged as an alternative approach. LBC involves collecting cervical cells in a liquid medium, which is then processed to create a uniform cell sample for analysis. This technique reduces the likelihood of inadequate samples, minimizes human errors, and enhances the accuracy of cytological evaluation, leading to more precise diagnoses [8].

Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) and Lugol's Iodine (VILI)

In resource-constrained settings, where access to sophisticated diagnostic tools is limited, visual inspection methods have gained traction. VIA involves applying dilute acetic acid to the cervix and observing it for color changes that may indicate abnormal cell growth. VILI employs Lugol's iodine solution to identify areas of the cervix that do not stain properly, potentially highlighting abnormal tissue. While these methods are cost-effective and easy to perform, their sensitivity and specificity can vary, necessitating trained healthcare personnel for accurate interpretation [9].

Colposcopy and biopsy: Confirmatory diagnostic procedures

When abnormal findings are detected through the aforementioned screening tests, colposcopy is often recommended. Colposcopy is a more in-depth examination of the cervix using a special magnifying instrument. It allows clinicians to visually inspect the cervix for any visible abnormalities and to perform biopsies of suspicious areas for pathological analysis. Biopsy results provide definitive information about the presence and extent of cervical cancer, guiding subsequent treatment decisions [10,11].

Conclusion

Cervical cancer diagnosis has significantly evolved over the years, thanks to technological advancements and a better understanding of its underlying causes. The combination of HPV testing, liquid- based cytology and visual inspection methods has enabled healthcare professionals to identify abnormalities with greater accuracy and efficiency. While these methods are crucial for early detection, it's equally important to ensure that women have access to regular screenings, especially in underserved regions. Efforts to improve cervical cancer diagnosis are ongoing, with researchers exploring innovative approaches such as biomarker identification and molecular diagnostics. As these technologies continue to develop and become more accessible, the medical community moves closer to reducing the burden of cervical cancer through early detection and intervention. Public awareness campaigns, accessible healthcare services, and international collaboration are essential components of this ongoing battle against cervical cancer.

Conflict of Interest

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Acknowledgment

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