Pap Test (Last 3 Years)

Variable Definition

Defined as having received a pap test in the past three years. Only available amongst females. Three years was chosen due to most countries, except Peru, having country guidelines that women should be tested every 3 years. The Pap test (or smear) is a screening test used to detect changes in the cells of the cervix that might become cervical cancer, through the examination of cervical cells under microscopy. This intervention is extensively available in low-complex health care services, easily to perform by health practitioners, and targeted to all women within a certain age. Thus, measures on coverage of PAP smear tests are frequently used as an indicator of accessibility to preventive resources within women’s population.