January 8, 2025 ~ Lucy Ann Lance talks with Dr. Patricia Ferguson, M.D., Medical Director, Senior Health Services at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Women aged 30 to 65 should have a Pap smear and HPV test every five years or continue with Pap smears every three years if not receiving HPV testing. After age 65, those with a history of normal results may no longer need testing. The main risk factor for cervical cancer is the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection, alongside factors like smoking and a weakened immune system.