Visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) is a simple, inexpensive test with moderate sensitivity and specificity for screening that can be combined with simple treatment procedures for early cervical lesions. (13) Health workers or nurses can be trained as test providers; the results are available immediately.

How is a VIA test done?

What does VIA involve? ❚ Performing a vaginal speculum exam during which a health care provider applies dilute (3- 5%) acetic acid (vinegar) to the cervix. ❙ Abnormal tissue temporarily appears white when exposed to vinegar. ❚ Viewing the cervix with the naked eye to identify color changes on the cervix.

What is the difference between VIA and Pap smear?

The accuracy of VIA was 77.5% compared to 52.8% of Pap smear. The difference was highly significant (p < 0.01). Conclusion: These results indicate that VIA is more sensitive and has a higher accuracy as compared to Pap smear. It could, therefore, be valuable in detection of precancerous lesions of cervix.