A recent national survey indicated that a significant portion of the female population is not receiving annual cervical cancer or pap smear tests, in spite of the evidence that the tests lead to early detection and a much better outcome for the patient. Pap smears have been in the women's health package for many years and an annual screening is highly recommended. The procedure is simple, quick, painless and very effective. Positive results from the screening will lead to follow up examinations and possible treatment for the very earliest stages of cervical cancer. A delay in diagnosis or delay in treatment can be deadly.
