Cancer screenings less aggressive

 The new guidelines on testing for cervical cancer are the latest in a number of reports issued in recent years recommending fewer routine cancer screenings.

 The recommendations are based on emerging science showing that test intervals can be safely lengthened and because limiting tests would reduce the distress caused by false positives and harm resulting from unnecessary procedures.

 In a controversial 2009 decision, for example, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommended scaling back mammogram screening for some women.

 And in 2010, the American Cancer Society retreated further from recommending routine prostate cancer screening by saying that men over age 50 should discuss the risks and benefits with their doctors before having a prostate-specific antigen test.