CERVICAL-CANCER AND HEALTH-CARE RESOURCES IN NEWARK, NEW-JERSEY, 1970 TO 1988

Objectives. In the past, the predominantly Black population of Newark, NJ, had little access to programs promoting or providing Pap tests. The ratio of in situ to invasive cases of cervical carcinoma was markedly reduced in all age categories, indicating inadequate screening for this cancer in this population. Funding became available to provide and publicize Pap smears but ceased after 5.5 years. We examined the effect of these changes in funding. Methods. Data came from all Newark hospitals and practitioners and from the state cancer registry. There are now data on incidence of in situ and invasive cervical cancer in Newark from 1970 through 1988, including years before, during, and after program funding. Results. The ratio of in situ to invasive cervical cancer increased and decreased in a striking parallel with the provision and subsequent cessation of funding. Conclusions. Cessation of funding of education and screening programs can result in resumption of an unfavorable in situ/invasive cervical carcinoma ratio in a poor population.