30.6.25
Cervical Screening interval change update for 25–49-year-olds
From July participants who are 25-49 will be offered a more personalised approach to cervical screening. Please note the algorithm for 50–64-year-olds remains unchanged.
Low Risk
• If there is no HPV found in the sample, and no HPV in the previous samples within the last 5 years, the participants will be categorised as low risk and will be recalled in 5 years. It typically takes 10-15 years for cancer to develop after an HPV infection. Therefore, a five year cervical screening interval for those who are HPV negative is safe.
• If the participant is in the 25–49-year-old age group and is found to be HPV negative on screening but were seen to be HPV positive cytology negative in the last 5 years they will be recalled after 3 years. Please note in the 50-64 year age group these participants recall will remain unchanged at 5 years
Medium risk
• If a participant has HPV in the sample with no cytology changes, they will be tested every 12 months. The body usually clears the HPV infection within 36 months. If abnormal cells are found, or if the HPV infection is still present after 3 tests, they will be referred for a colposcopy to take a closer look at the cervix
High Risk
• If HPV is found in the sample and there are cervical cell changes on cytology the participant be referred directly to colposcopy clinic.