It is time to raise awareness for the 4th most common type of cancer for women. 

The World Health Organisation’s ultimate goal by 20230 is to eliminate Cervical Cancer as a world health problem. Organisations such as Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation are helping reach this target.  

It is known as arguably a preventable cancer, if there is rapid education on the preventative measures available, which has been proven as a huge factor in reducing the severity of one’s experience with cervical cancer. 

Continuing from last year’s awareness week campaign ‘Time to Catch up’ remains the ultimate theme for this year. As you would understand the pandemic has had a negative impact on the undiagnosed rates of cervical cancer with a lack of screening across the nation and school-aged children not being immunised as a part of the National HPV Vaccination Program in schools. If you were due to get your screen during the lockdown period it is crucial you book an appointment today and take the steps to hopefully preventing the disease.

Cervical Cancer Screening Test, previously known as the ‘Pap Test’ targets women 25-72. Whilst Australia has one of the strongest cervical cancer elimination rates globally, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities are unfortunately facing further barriers than the rest. There are even concerns in developing countries with reduced rates of screening and HPV vaccination causing higher incidence and mortality rates. 

The introduction of ‘Self-Collection’ screening has allowed for women to avoid a sense of  or feeling uncomfortable or awkwardness with a doctor performing the screen. Women who are eligible are able to take their own test in a private area usually behind a screen whilst being a healthcare professional oversees the process. 

Just over 70% of cervical cancer cases are caused by a lack of screening. Whatever the reason, the Cervical Screening Test is your best bet for prevention. Unfortunately 36% of women claim to ‘forget’ about their cervical screening test. This excuse is no longer valid with the introduction of the ‘Get the Text’ campaign. With how busy and overwhelming life can be, remembering when your last screen was can be difficult if you aren’t organised. But that has changed. There is no better way to remind the public about their screens than with a text. You can now sign up for free to receive a text message when you are due for your next screen. It is then on you to take action and book that appointment. Make sure you have the date of your last screen to ensure you have an accurate countdown set up. 

>> SIGN UP TO GET THE TEXT