Cancer prevention and screening in women.

Although there is no recommended screening for ovarian or endometrial cancers, the use of oral contraceptives is a primary prevention maneuver. The prevention of cervical cancer is accomplished best by Pap smear screening every 1 to 3 years. Clinical breast examination and mammography every 1 to 2 years after age 50 years are effective in reducing breast cancer mortality. Screening for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations is now available, but the role of these tests is still not clear; extensive patient counseling is required.