There's not enough good evidence to make the call as to whether an annual pelvic exam is a good screening tool, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force says.
The HPV vaccine prevents cancer, but in a survey most parents said they don't want it to be required for school. They're much happier with a mandate if they're given an opportunity to opt out.
Many Americans aren't getting recommended screening tests for colorectal, breast and cervical cancer. Despite a public health push, there has been a lack of progress in reaching screening goals.
The Pap smear has dramatically decreased rates of cervical cancer, but testing too often has a downside, too. Many women say they aren't yet ready to follow new guidelines and skip the annual tests.
An HPV test could replace the Pap smear for many women, two groups of physicians say. But other doctors, including the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, still urge dual testing.
Women in the developing world may never be tested for cervical cancer. Clinics are far away, cultural biases may keep them away. Now an inexpensive test lets them do it themselves.
A campaign in Africa to prevent HIV has persuaded 6 million teens and men to get circumcised and aims to sign up 14 million more. To do so, health officials must appeal to male vanity.