This study, a Cancer Moonshot priority, is designed to develop a cervical cancer risk prediction model incorporating clinical and laboratory covariates. The goal is to classify women’s risks of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2 (CIN 2), CIN 3, and cancer into strata upon which clinical management decisions can be based. Eight articles comprising a supplemental issue in the Journal of Lower Genital Tract Disease formed the early core of this effort.
In current work, risk data from multiple cohorts are being compiled. For example, we have confirmed in two other cohorts that HPV-positive ASC-US (atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance) is equivalent to LSIL (low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion), while HPV-negative ASC-US is equivalent to a normal pap result. Also, a negative HPV test provides greater reassurance against risk of cancer than a negative pap result. If HPV is negative, knowing that the pap is also negative provides only slight additional reassurance.
For more information, contact Mark Schiffman.