2 minute read
Rosemary Bryant AO Research Centre
The global effort to eliminate cervical cancer
Can cervical cancer be eliminated? It is exciting to know that the answer is YES. Countries across the world are working hard to make this happen. We know what to do, and it’s quite simple. Here’s what you need to know.
Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women globally. Most cervical cancers are caused by an infection that does not go away. The virus responsible for the infection is human papillomavirus or HPV. HPV can be detected with a simple test – the cervical screening test. Finding HPV is important because health issues caused by HPV might not be obvious but can be treated before they become serious. Cervical cancer is slow to develop and taking the screening test is one of the most important things you can do. If found early, most cervical cancers can be successfully treated.
Here are some things you may not know about the cervical screening test:
1. You are eligible for the cervical screening test if you are 25-74 years old.
2. The test should be done every 5-years.
3. You should screen even if you have been vaccinated against HPV.
4. Cervical screening is safe and easy.
5. Your doctor or nurse can collect a sample from the cervix.
6. You can collect the sample yourself using a simple swab from your vagina.
The message is simple – start screening and keep screening!
If you have received an invitation for a Cervical Screening Test or are overdue for your test, book your appointment now. You can also ask your GP if you are up to date with cervical screening.
The Rosemary Bryant AO Research Centre will be doing research about women’s experiences of screening. The MCCSA will share information about this in 2024.
Information about the Cervical Screening Test is available in different languages on the Australian Government website.
https://www.health.gov.au/ our-work/national-cervicalscreening-program
