Cervical cancer screening with Pap smears begins at age 21.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only in high-risk groups
• D. Depends on HPV status

Answer: (A)

Cervical cancer screening is timed to balance catching precancerous changes early with avoiding unnecessary procedures in people who are unlikely to benefit. Beginning Pap smears at age 21 reflects that approach: HPV infections are common in teens and many resolve on their own, so starting screening earlier does not meaningfully reduce cancer risk and can lead to overdiagnosis and overtreatment. Hence, the standard practice is to start at 21, regardless of sexual activity or baseline risk. From ages 21 to 29, screening is typically a Pap smear every 3 years. HPV testing isn’t used to decide when to start screening in this age group. After age 30, you may have co-testing with HPV every 5 years or Pap alone every 3 years. The statement is not about HPV status or high-risk groups changing the starting age.