Friday November 2, 2001

New tests screen for cervical cancer, chlamydia and gonorrhea

The Women's Health Clinic at the Campus Health Center is using a new test to help more accurately detect cervical cancer.

The test, known as the ThinPrep Pap Test, is "significantly more effective" than the conventional Pap smear, according to the Food and Drug Administration. The University of Arizona's Campus Health Center began using the test in Fall 2000.

The specimen is obtained in the same manner as with the Pap smear, but is processed differently.

"The new procedure provides a better specimen to look at," said Faye Libbey, nurse practitioner at Campus Health.

Libbey said the new test filters blood, yeast and other impurities that often cause conventional Pap smears to be hard to read.

"We should have fewer false negatives, which is a big thing," Libbey said.

Libbey said she has seen a decrease in the number of atypical Pap smear results since the clinic began using the new test.

"In the past, we would definitely see atypical Paps more frequently," she said.

The reduction in atypical test results is not the only benefit of the new test.

"We're looking for the needle in the haystack," Libbey said. "With the new test, we're better able to hone in on the cause of atypical Paps."

Another new test available at Campus Health is a screening for chlamydia and gonorrhea.

"This is a boon for guys," Libbey said.

Previous tests required a sample be taken from a man's urethra, but the new test requires no invasive techniques. The new test takes only a urine sample.

Libby encouraged both men and women who are sexually active to be screened for disease.

Lee Ann Hamilton, sexual health educator for UA's Health Promotion and Preventive Services, agreed.

"I encourage all women who are over 18 or sexually active to get an annual pelvic and Pap test," Hamilton said. "So many women don't know what is going on with their body."

Erica Haller, a community health education senior, said she gets her annual women's health exam at Campus Health.

"I've actually gone to a private gynecologist, but preferred the staff and technique here," she said.

Haller said she particularly appreciates the all-female staff at the Women's Health Clinic on campus. She said background medical questions, such as details about past sexual history, are easier to answer with a doctor or nurse of the same sex.

"I think it makes people more comfortable and honest," she said.

Haller also said the physical aspects of an annual exam can be less intimidating when handled by a female nurse or doctor.

"They're sensitive to it," she said.

While the ThinPrep Pap Test is more expensive than a conventional Pap smear, Libbey said the peace of mind that comes with accurate test results makes up for the increase in cost.

Campus Health offers the ThinPrep test for $40. Students with Campus Health insurance pay $7. Those who want to take this test and others can call Campus Health at 621-6512.