To determine knowledge of the Spanish guidelines for cervical cancer screening, and to evaluate the use of tests for the detection of human papilloma virus (HPV) by Spanish gynecologists.
The survey focused on gynecologists who were members of the Spanish Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics and the Spanish Association of Cervical Pathology and Colposcopy. One hundred forty-one specialists completed the questionnaire.
Thirty percent of the target population participated. A total of 95.6%were aware of the recommendations and 93.5%routinely used the test for the detection of the HPV (77.7%for cervical cancer screening). The criteria for the use of the test varied considerably among participants. The main reason for not using the technique was its unavailability.
Training and information on the available recommendations for the new screening strategies and, particularly, on the clinical use of HPV determination should be reinforced.