Cervical Cancer Screening

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 12,000 new cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed each year. Learn more about the importance of routine Pap smears (also know as Pap tests), early detection and treatment.

Cervical cancer can be found early by having regular cancer screening Pap smears. A Pap test can find changes in the cervix at an early stage when treatment may be more effective and a cure is more likely. Pap tests are covered for female beneficiaries beginning at age 21. The frequency of screening Pap tests is at the discretion of the beneficiary and provider; however they should be performed at least once every three years. Women under age 21 should not be screened regardless of the age of sexual initiation or other risk factors.

To learn more about the benefit coverage, visit TRICARE's Covered Services page.

• For woman between age 16–24, learn how to stay healthy with Young Women's Health and Wellness: A Guide to Starting Out and Staying Healthy.
• January is Cervical Health Awareness Month.

• American Cancer Society 
• National Cervical Cancer Coalition