Because it is so widespread, virtually every family in America has been touched by cancer.  An estimated 10,000 American women were diagnosed with cervical cancer last year and early detection is critical to the treatment of these women.  It can mean the difference between life and death.

The Cytology Proficiency Improvement Act of 2007 passed the House by a voice vote. This bill would improve women’s health care by making sure lab personnel are trained in reading Pap smear tests done with updated technology. It would establish a continuing medical education program, require anyone involved in reading Pap tests to attend the program annually, and provide lab directors with guidelines for evaluating their staff. It is now up to the Senate to act on this legislation.