Introduction

Cervical cáncer is a serious threat to female public health. Fortunately, the incidence and mortality have been reduced thanks to early detection through Pap smears. This examination allows the identification of precancerous and cancerous changes, offering the opportunity for early interventions.

The two main risk factors for cervical cancer are exposure to the Human Papillomavirus and risky sexual behaviors. Vaccination and education about healthy lifestyles are key to primary prevention.

The accuracy of the Pap smear is affected by sample quality and individual factors. Understanding these factors is crucial to improving screening and prevention strategies, thereby reducing the burden of cervical cancer.

Methodology:

490 Pap smears from women between 16 and 73 years old were analyzed. Information was collected on age, contraceptive methods, nutritional status, presence of microorganisms, and Pap smear results.

Results:

The following results were found: coverage of the first Pap smear: 74.1%, screening quality: 3.26%, samples with LIEAG: 1.02%, with LIEBG: 1.84%. The average age: 34.2 years, a minimum age of 16 and the maximum age of 73 years.

Association between contraceptive use and age (p=0.000173). No association was found between contraceptive use and atypical cellular changes (p=0.767). nor in nutritional status (p=0.485). there is an association between the presence of microorganisms and atypical cellular changes (p=0.001).

Conclusions:

The Pap smear is afundamental toolfor the early detection ofcervical cancer; closefollow-up is recommended for women with atypical cellular changes.

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