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1. 40 years ago, sexual promiscuity wasn't was widespread as it is today.

I have no reason to believe that this is in fact the case. 40 years ago was 1967. Regardless, we treat what we find today, not what was found 40 years ago...

2. If many cervical cancers are *not* caused by a virus, it would stand to reason:

...and the vast majority of cervical cancer *is* caused by HPV. Cancers of the oropharynx are also caused by HPV, btw.

3. ... that 40 years ago most cervical cancers weren't caused by a virus. 40 years ago, the viruses that cause cervical cancer weren't allowed the opportunity to spread. Most cases of CC would be caused by other means.

Smoking does cause cervical cancer as well. While it is possible that it was the leading cause 40 years ago (which I seriously doubt), that still has no bearing on reality today.

Mea culpa. Dr. Papanicolaou actually invented the 'Pap smear' in the 40's. My memory for dates isn't what it used to be but my memory for the evolution of the appearance of cervical cancer is still quite sharp. Another entity you might be interested in- I remember in the 80's hearing a lecture about the transmission of HPV to some newborns via passage through the birth canal. These children developed warts is their throats, IIRC. I haven't followed this story so I can't discuss the validity of it.

The vast majority of cervical cancers are now caused by HPV. The pap smear is the first line of detection. HPV moves very swiftly these days (unlike in the olden days). Sexually active women, especially those who have been or will be involved with many partners, should get a smear every 6 months. Early detection is key and, yes, the pap smear doesn't find all HPVs.

I remember in high school a friend of mine used to say 'the best birth control is one thin dime placed firmly between the knees'. It's also the best defense against STDs.