What is the age range for cervical cancer screening recommendations by the USPSTF?

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends cervical cancer screening beginning at 21 years of age and continuing until 65 years. This age range is based on evidence showing that cervical cancer screening before the age of 21 is not effective due to the natural history of human papillomavirus (HPV) infections, which are common in younger individuals and often clear on their own without treatment.

After the age of 21, screening is crucial as it can significantly reduce incidence and mortality rates from cervical cancer. The recommended screening strategies include Pap smear alone every three years for women aged 21 to 29, or Pap smear combined with HPV testing every five years for women aged 30 to 65. This age range is specifically targeted to cover the population most at risk while also balancing the benefits and potential harms of screening in younger women.

Other age ranges listed in the options either begin at an age before the evidence supports screening, extend beyond the recommended stopping age, or do not align with the guidelines provided by the USPSTF. Thus, the choice of 21 to 65 years accurately reflects the USPSTF's guidelines on cervical cancer screening.