Labs across Ontario and parts of the country are experiencing a backlog of Pap test results that can detect cell changes in the cervix.

Both LifeLabs and Dynacare that process millions of tests a year, acknowledge the backlog that can be traced to staffing shortages and an increase in demand as more people return to doctors for routine screenings.

There’s a global decline in the number of lab specialists who review the screenings with only a dozen cytotechnologists  who graduate each year in Canada.

The Health Ministry says it’s monitoring plans for labs to return to normal service levels.