New HPV Screening Test Now Available in Estrie: Expanding Access to Early Detection and Prevention

health.">

September 25, 2025

Estrie is now the latest region in Quebec to implement Human Papillomavirus (HPV) screening as a primary method for detecting cervical cancer. This marks a significant enhancement in preventive healthcare for women in the area, providing a more accurate and less frequent testing schedule.

Expanding Access to HPV Screening Across Quebec

The announcement, made on Tuesday by Isabelle Charest, Minister responsible for Sport, leisure and Outdoor, and the region of Estrie, and Geneviève Hébert, Deputy of Saint-françois, underscores the government’s commitment to proactive health measures. Minister Charest highlighted the advancement as a “major step” in the fight against cervical cancer.

This rollout follows successful implementation in several other regions, including Capitale-Nationale, the islands-de-la-Madeleine, Bas-Saint-Laurent, Gaspésie, Chaudière-Appalaches, Lanaudière, L’outaouais, Laval, saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, Côte-Nord, and Montérégie.

From PAP Tests to HPV Screening: A modern Approach

The shift from the traditional Papanicolaou (PAP) test to HPV screening represents a move toward more precise cancer detection. HPV testing identifies the presence of the Human Papillomavirus, which is a primary cause of most cervical cancers.

Unlike the PAP test, which requires screening every two years, the HPV test allows for a longer interval between screenings – every five years – reducing the frequency of procedures while maintaining, and in many cases improving, detection rates.

Did You know? According to the World Health institution, cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women globally, but it is largely preventable.

Key Differences: PAP Test vs.HPV Test

Feature	PAP Test	HPV Test
What it detects	Abnormal cells on the cervix	Presence of High-Risk HPV strains
Screening Frequency	every 2 years	Every 5 years
Accuracy	Can miss early-stage changes	More sensitive in detecting precancerous changes

The implementation of HPV screening in Estrie promises to enhance early detection rates and contribute to a reduction in cervical cancer cases throughout the province.

Pro Tip: Talk to your healthcare provider to determine if HPV screening is right for you and discuss any concerns you may have.

Understanding HPV and Cervical Cancer

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common virus transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, most often during sexual activity. While many HPV infections clear up on their own, persistent infections with high-risk HPV types can lead to cell changes that may eventually develop into cervical cancer.

Regular screening is crucial, as early detection of precancerous changes allows for timely treatment and prevention of cancer development.Vaccination against HPV is also available and is highly effective in preventing infection with the most common cancer-causing HPV types.

Frequently Asked Questions about HPV Screening

• What is HPV screening? HPV screening is a test that checks for the presence of the Human Papillomavirus, a common virus that can cause cervical cancer.
• How often should I get an HPV test? The HPV test is typically recommended every five years, but your doctor may recommend a different schedule based on your individual risk factors.
• Is HPV screening more accurate than a PAP test? Yes, HPV screening is generally more sensitive in detecting precancerous changes in the cervix.
• Can I still get cervical cancer if I get the HPV vaccine? The HPV vaccine protects against the most common cancer-causing HPV types, but it does not protect against all types. Regular screening is still important even if you are vaccinated.
• Where can I find more data about HPV and cervical cancer? Visit the Canadian cancer Society website for comprehensive resources.

Are you confident about your understanding of the benefits of HPV screening? What questions do you still have for your health provider?

share this important health update with friends and family, and let’s spread awareness about cervical cancer prevention!

What are the specific benefits of HPV primary screening compared to the customary Pap test in terms of identifying individuals at risk?

Understanding the HPV Landscape in estrie

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common sexually transmitted infection (STI). While many HPV infections clear on their own, persistent infections with high-risk HPV types can lead to several cancers, including cervical, anal, vaginal, vulvar, penile, and oropharyngeal cancers. In Estrie, like other regions, increasing rates of HPV-related cancers have prompted a push for improved screening and prevention strategies. This new HPV screening test represents a meaningful step forward in protecting the health of our community. HPV screening, cervical cancer prevention, and STI testing Estrie are crucial components of preventative healthcare.

What is the New HPV Screening Test?

Traditionally, cervical cancer screening in Estrie, and across Quebec, has relied heavily on the Pap test. The Pap test looks for abnormal cells caused by HPV. The new screening test,known as HPV primary screening,directly tests for the presence of high-risk HPV types – specifically HPV 16 and 18,which cause approximately 70% of cervical cancers.

Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:

* Pap Test: Detects cellular changes. Requires follow-up testing if abnormal results are found.

* HPV Primary Screening: Detects the virus itself. More sensitive in identifying women at risk.

* Co-testing: Combines both Pap and HPV testing. Becoming less common with the increased availability of HPV primary screening.

This shift to HPV primary screening aligns with national and international guidelines, including those from the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC). HPV testing, cervical screening guidelines, and Pap test alternatives are all important considerations for patients and healthcare providers.

Who is Eligible for HPV Screening in Estrie?

Currently, the recommended screening guidelines in Estrie (and Quebec) are:

* Individuals with a cervix aged 25-69: Should undergo HPV primary screening every 5 years.

* Individuals aged 20-24: Continue with Pap tests every 2-3 years, as HPV infections are more common in this age group and frequently enough resolve on their own.

* Individuals with a history of abnormal Pap tests or HPV results: Will receive personalized follow-up recommendations from their healthcare provider.

* Post-menopausal individuals: Screening can generally be discontinued after age 69 if previous tests have been normal.

It’s vital to discuss your individual risk factors and screening schedule with your doctor. Screening frequency, HPV vaccine eligibility, and risk factors for cervical cancer should all be part of this conversation.

Benefits of HPV Primary Screening

The implementation of HPV primary screening in Estrie offers several significant advantages:

* Increased Accuracy: HPV testing is more sensitive than the pap test in detecting precancerous changes.

* Reduced False Positives: Fewer needless colposcopies (a procedure to examine the cervix more closely).

* Longer Screening Intervals: Screening every 5 years rather of every 2-3 years reduces the burden on the healthcare system and provides convenience for patients.

* Early Detection: Identifying high-risk HPV infections allows for earlier intervention and prevention of cervical cancer.

* Prevention of Other HPV-Related cancers: While primarily focused on cervical cancer, understanding your HPV status can inform discussions about risks for other HPV-related cancers.

Accessing HPV Screening in Estrie: Where to Go

HPV primary screening is now available through:

* Family Physicians (GPs): Your primary care doctor is often the first point of contact for screening.

* Clinics spécialisées (Specialized Clinics): Several clinics throughout Estrie offer dedicated gynecological services, including HPV screening. Contact your local CLSC (Center local de services communautaires) for referrals.

* Gynaecologists: If you have a gynaecologist, schedule an appointment to discuss screening options.

* Mobile Screening Units: quebec occasionally deploys mobile screening units to underserved areas. Check with your local health authorities for availability.

Finding a clinic, booking an appointment, and understanding costs are important steps in accessing care. Many services are covered by the Quebec health insurance plan (RAMQ).

What happens After a Positive HPV Test?

A positive HPV test doesn’t necessarily mean you have cancer. It simply indicates the presence of a high-risk HPV type. The next steps will depend on the specific HPV type detected and your individual risk factors.

Common follow-up procedures include:

1. Repeat HPV Testing: In some cases, a repeat test may be performed after a few months to see if the infection has cleared on its own.
2. Colposcopy: If high-risk HPV types 16 or 18 are detected, or if other risk factors are present, a colposcopy might potentially be recommended.
3. Biopsy: During a colposcopy, a small tissue sample may be taken for further examination.

Understanding your results, managing anxiety, and