Preventing avoidable death: the case of cervical cancer in Hong Kong

P Adab, AJ Hedley
Department of Community Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Patrick Manson Building South Wing, 7 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong

Cervical cancer remains an important cause of avoidable morbidity and mortality in Hong Kong. This paper briefly reviews the epidemiology of cervical cancer and explores the evidence on the effectiveness of screening. The essential components of a successful cervical cancer screening programme, based on international experience, are discussed. The present situation in Hong Kong is then examined and the options outlined for the way ahead.

Hong Kong Med J 1997;3:427-32

Key words: Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia; Cervix neoplasms; Hong Kong; Mass screening