WORLD JOURNAL OF ADVANCE
HEALTHCARE RESEARCH

*Khitam Fadhil Sultan, Asan Ali Qasim and Besma Mohamed Ali

ABSTRACT

Background: In women worldwide, the Papanicolaou test (Pap smear) is critical for early cervical abnormality identification, including cancer. Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women, especially in low- and middle-income countries with poor screening. Regular screening and early intervention prevent many of diseases. Method: This cross-sectional study assessed the prevalence and determinants of abnormal Pap smear results among 3,963 non-pregnant women at Al-Elweiya Teaching Hospital (2016-2024). Participants, were analyzed by age, reproductive and lifestyle factors, and Pap smear outcomes (NILM, ASC-US, LSIL, HSIL, ASC-H, and AGC). Exclusions included prior cervical malignancy and incomplete records. Results: The study's findings reveal that the majority of Pap smear results were normal (NILM) at 82.2%, with ASC-US being the most common abnormal finding (9.1%). High-grade lesions (HSIL) and severe abnormalities (ASC-H) were rare, showing slight increases in older age groups. These results suggest age-related patterns in cervical abnormalities, with younger groups experiencing fewer severe findings and older age groups showing higher occurrences of HSIL and ASC-H, indicating increased cervical cancer risk with age. Conclusion: The majority of individuals had normal Pap smears, with ASC-US and LSIL abnormalities. Older age groups had more severe abnormalities including HSIL and ASC-H, suggesting higher cervical cancer risk. Lifestyle variables including contraceptive usage, smoking, and early marriage age were also connected to abnormal Pap screenings, underscoring their impact on cervical health.

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