"Australia has one of the lowest rates of cervical cancer around due to an excellent Pap screening program – but women have to do their bit and have regular Pap tests to make sure it stays that way," said Jill Michelson, General Manager of Operations for Marie Stopes International.
Latest figures from Victoria’s Cervical Cytology Registry show there was a decline of approximately 16% in cervical screening tests for the last quarter of 2008 compared with the same time in 2007, with the decline in testing rates seen across most age groups. “This decline is worrying, especially when you consider the fact that, in comparison to other states, Victoria has had one of the highest participation rates in cervical screening in the past,” said Ms Michelson. “To add to this, the proportion of Australian women aged 20–69 years participating in cervical screening every two years is only slightly over 60%, and three out of four women who develop cervical cancer have either never had a Pap test or haven’t had one in the past five years.”
Research has shown that when cervical cancer occurs, the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) infection is found in almost all cases. The virus is spread via genital skin-to-skin contact and using condoms or other barrier methods does not prevent transmission. In most cases the body takes between one and two years to clear the virus naturally.
Currently available vaccines protect against HPV types that account for up to 80% of cervical cancer cases and the majority of pre-cancerous cervical abnormalities. “Worldwide, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women, and it is estimated to cause 233,000 deaths per year - so the cervical cancer vaccine is definitely a much needed medical breakthrough,” Ms Michelson said. “However it is important to remember that the vaccination does not protect against all HPV types associated with cervical cancer, so it is essential that vaccinated women continue with regular Pap screening. “The vaccination and a Pap test every two years offer you the best chance of preventing both cervical cancer and pre-cancerous cervical abnormalities. “Without a doubt, early detection is the best prevention when it comes to cervical cancer – and what more fitting day to have a Pap test than International Women’s Day!”
To enquire about Pap tests, visit your doctor, local family planning centre, or call Marie Stopes International on Freecall 1800 003 707. (ends)
About Marie Stopes International: provider, with centres in the ACT, VIC, NSW, QLD and WA. MSI offers a range of services, including abortion, vasectomy, sexually transmitted infection check-ups, cntraception and community-based health promotion and education. The organisation is part of a global international partnership that delivers vital health services to over five million people in 42 countries worldwide. Surplus funds support Marie Stopes International Australia, our charity partner, which works to save lives and improve sexual and reproductive health in Indigenous Australia and throughout the Asia-Pacific region. Marie Stopes International is a not-for-profit sexual and reproductive healthcare organisation.
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