Cervical cancer in India--strategy for control.

The available information on the incidence of cancers by site in India have indicated that of incidence of cancer of uterine cervix among women is by far the highest compared to other sites in women. The epidemiology of cervical cancer has been studied extensively in India and in other countries. The majority of factors related to cervical cancer are associated with sexual behaviour. The available evidence for control of cervical cancer is through secondary prevention, namely--early detection through Pap smear. In the present communication the alternative strategies with secondary prevention for control of cervical cancer is worked out. Taking into consideration the number of cervical cancer cases saved, number of woman years saved and the cost aspects the strategy at present for India should be to provide one life time screening for women at the age of 45 years.