The National Cervical Screening Program was introduced to Australia in 1991. Over the following 10 years, cervical cancer incidence almost halved, preventing more than 1200 news cases of the disease annually.
Women between the ages of 18 and 70 are advised to visit their GP for a free Pap test every two years. For further information call the screening information line on 13 15 56 (cost of a local phone call).
Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted infection that is responsible for the majority of cervical cancer.
A new vaccine, Gardasil, protects against two strains of HPV which cause 70 per cent of cervical cancers. The vaccine is now available through the National Immunisation Program, however it has only proven to be effective in women who have never been sexually active.
Cancer Council Australia recommends women who have been sexually active at any time take part in the national cervical cancer screening program. Cancer Council acknowledges the likely benefits of the HPV vaccine for future generations, however it is not a replacement for screening at this time.
More information about cervical cancer screening and the HPV vaccine is available in Cancer Council’s position statement on cervical cancer screening and HPV media release.
If you need more information or would like to talk to someone about cervical cancer, the Pap test or HPV vaccine call The Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20.