A female client diagnosed with condylomata acuminata (genital warts) should be informed about cancer risk. What is the recommended screening?

• A. Pap smear annually
• B. HPV vaccination annually
• C. Colposcopy every other year
• D. Self-breast exam

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that cervical cancer risk from HPV is monitored through cervical cytology screening. Genital warts indicate HPV infection, and certain HPV types can cause precancerous changes in cervical cells over time. A Pap smear examines cervical cells for these early abnormalities, allowing detection and treatment before cancer develops. Because of this risk connection, regular Pap smear screening is the most appropriate way to screen for cervical cancer in someone with HPV-related genital warts. HPV vaccination helps prevent infection with some HPV types but is not a screening test and isn’t used in place of Pap smears. Colposcopy is a follow-up procedure used when a Pap smear is abnormal to examine the cervix more closely, not a routine screening method. Self-breast exam addresses breast health and does not screen for cervical cancer.