Cervical cancer is among the most common cancers in women, which is why early detection matters so much. Finding issues early makes prevention and treatment faster and more effective. Two tests used to screen for cervical cancer are the VIA test and the Pap smear. These tests are offered to sexually active women aged 21 years and older.
Both the VIA test and the Pap smear are widely used, yet they are not the same. Below are some important differences:
Tests and Procedures
The VIA test, short for Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid, is a screening test for early changes that can lead to cervical cancer. It is practical and straightforward. The tools needed are simple and quick to use. A VIA test does not have to be done by an obstetrician-gynecologist; trained general practitioners or midwives can perform it. Community health centers (Puskesmas) can provide this service. During a VIA test, a 3–5% acetic acid solution is applied to the cervix. Results can be seen shortly after the test.
A Pap smear, by contrast, is usually performed by an obstetrician-gynecologist at a hospital or a community health center that offers Pap services. In a Pap smear, cells are gently collected from the surface of the cervix and placed in a vial with special fluid, then examined in a laboratory. Estimated results are available about three weeks after the test.
Cost
The VIA test is generally far more affordable. It is low cost and available at nearby community health centers. A Pap smear typically costs at least around 100,000 rupiah at hospitals or clinics staffed by obstetrician-gynecologists.
Ai Care friends should note that in Indonesia, the VIA test is often used as the initial screening step before a Pap smear. If the VIA test is abnormal, a referral for a Pap smear will follow.
Now that you understand the VIA test and the Pap smear, it is clear why early screening for cervical cancer is important. Do not hesitate to have a VIA test or a Pap smear.
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- dr Hanifa Rahma
Kristiyati, S. 2007. Pap Smear: Jurnal Dosen Kebidanan STIKKES ‘Aiyiyah (Gaster Vol.3). Surakarta
National Institute of Health (2020). National Cancer Institute Dictionary. Pap Smear.
World Health Organization. Cervical Cancer Screening.
Weatherspoon D. Pap Smear (Pap Test): What to Expect. Healthline. 2021. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/pap-smear
