The AutoPap 300 QC machine and Pathfinder 'Helper' computers will help ensure the highest possible Pap test reporting standards. This is the first joint service and research clinic for the prevention of cervical cancer in Hong Kong and is at present the only community clinic employing such computer technology. Cervical cancer is common female malignancy and worldwide each year, there are half a million new cases. It is also the second killer cancer among women in Hong Kong. Annually in Hong Kong, about 150 women die from the disease and 450-500 new cases are diagnosed.
Factors associated with cervical cancer include early onset of coitus, virus infections and smoking.
It is also found out that most women having cervical cancer neglect to have a Pap test. There are very few cancers that can be readily detected at the 'embryonic' pre-invasive phase. Cervical cancer, however, can easily and effectively be prevented by a simple cervical smear or Pap test. A well-taken Pap test that is examined by a good laboratory will detect the 'embryonic' early lesions and with treatment, future cervical cancer is prevented from developing. Countries that have good pap test programme have very low cervical cancer rates.