Jersey Shore University Medical Center is conducting a clinical trial that provides women with a more accurate way to detect cervical cancer. The clinical research study, led by Mark Martens, M.D., chair of Obstetrics & Gynecology at Jersey Shore University Medical Center and world renowned expert in women's health, includes a free Pap test and HPV screening that more effectively evaluates a woman's chance of developing cervical cancer.
The American Cancer Society predicts that this year in the United States, more than 12,100 women will be diagnosed with cervical cancer, and roughly 4,220 women will die of the disease. Newer Pap tests and HPV screening more accurately identify pre-cancerous cellular changes that potentially develop into cervical cancer. When treated early, the chances of effectively treating and curing cervical cancer increase dramatically. Compared to a conventional Pap tests, the newer FDA approved process has increased detection of a significant pre-cancerous condition by more than 64%. By making the cervical cells easier to see, the new liquid-based Pap test produces better results for screening and detecting cervical cancer and its precursors.
HPV is present in more than 99% of women who develop cervical cancer. Newer DNA-based technology has also proven to be up to 40% more accurate than traditional Pap tests.
"After decades of women going to their doctor for annual Pap tests, the FDA, in a historic decision in April 2014, approved HPV testing as a replacement for the Pap test. Because of this new option for patients, more tests are now being developed to further expand the options for women and we are excited to be a part of this new, more accurate, more sensitive, and more comfortable method to prevent cancer in women. It's a groundbreaking development that provides women in our community with access to the best cervical health screening available today," says Dr. Mark Martens.
In this study, patients will have cancer causing HPV strains tested from the liquid-based Pap specimen to determine if either one or both tests will improve cancer detection. In order to be eligible to participate women must be at least 21 years of age or older and have not had a Pap test in the past four months or a hysterectomy. Other requirements must also be met in order to qualify for this clinical research study. Women who participate will receive study related medical care at no charge, and will be compensated for study related procedures.
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