In 2015, it is estimated that 1500 Canadian women will be diagnosed with cervical cancer and 380 will die from it. The cervix is the tissue at the opening of the uterus (womb). Cervical cancer occurs when the cells of the cervix change and become abnormal. A Pap test is a simple procedure. Your doctor gently scraps some sample cells from your cervix. The lab will examine these cells to determine if any abnormal changes have occurred. Your doctor will discuss any abnormal findings with you and help you sort out appropriate treatment. The Ontario Cervical Screening Program recommends women who are or have been sexually active have a Pap test every 3 years starting at age 21. If a woman has a Pap test come back with some abnormal changes, the frequency of future Pap tests will be more often than every 3 years. Newest PAP Guidelines (2012)- PAP tests: This is my story. (Women 20-35) Pass it on!- PAP tests: This is my story. (Women 35 and over) Pass it on!- PAP tests: This is my story. (Women 50 and over) Pass it on!