New cervical cancer guidelines causing concern

The recently revised guidelines for mammograms aren't the only changes stirring emotions in the field of women's health. New Pap smear guidelines also are leading to confusion and concern for some women and their doctors.

The revised directives issued by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend women wait until the age of 21 to get their first cervical screening, and that women over 20 should have routine Pap smears every two years instead of annually. The guidelines also say women 30 and older should wait three years for their next Pap smear once they've had three consecutive clear tests.

Dr. Jill Hechtman worries the revisions will give some women a false sense of security.

"I don't want patients to hear that because of these guidelines they shouldn't go to their doctor. That's not true and that's where the confusion lies," said Hechtman, an obstetrician/gynecologist for St. Joseph's Women's Center.

Hechtman said she is concerned doctors might end up missing pre-cancerous cells in sexually active teens and fears the recommendations will result in insurers denying medically necessary claims.

Alicia Green, a 19-year-old mother of two, disagrees with the new guidelines. She gets annual Pap tests and her doctor watches her closely because of a prior irregular Pap smear.

"Cancer runs in my family, and I have two kids to raise. I don't want to miss out on anything because I have cancer," Green said.

The National Cervical Cancer Coalition voiced support for the new directives Friday. Alan Kaye, chairman of the board for the NCCC, said research shows most teens with problem Pap smears need to be watched but not necessarily treated. Kaye said procedures to remove pre-cancerous tissue can lead to child-bearing problems.

The new guidelines were coincidentally issued just days after new recommendations on mammograms.