Boosting cancer screening among women

Young women in Victoria are being urged to have a life-saving Pap test in a new campaign aiming to boost cervical cancer screening rates.

Young women are increasingly shunning a life-saving test that can prevent cervical cancer, according to new statistics revealed by PapScreen Victoria.

The proportion of young women in Australia aged 25-29 having Pap tests every two years, in line with national guidelines, has fallen by almost 10 per cent since 1996-1997.

The new statistics have prompted PapScreen Victoria to launch a new advertising campaign called Peace of Mind, designed to encourage younger women in particular to engage with the screening program, and take action to protect their health.

Peace of Mind provides the hard-hitting message that every woman aged 18-70 should have a Pap test every two years, even if they have had the cervical cancer vaccine.

Kate Broun, Manager PapScreen Victoria, said most women diagnosed with cervical cancer have not had regular Pap tests, yet Pap tests can prevent around 9 out of 10 cervical cancers.

"The new advertising campaign acknowledges that Pap tests can be awkward, but emphasises that in return for this little piece of awkwardness every two years, women can have the peace of mind that comes from knowing they are doing everything possible to protect themselves from cervical cancer," Ms Broun said.

The campaign features new ads on television, radio, print and online, as well as community posters. Specialised ads targeting multicultural communities will also run along the main campaign.

PapScreen Victoria is a joint Commonwealth and state government funded program coordinated by the Victorian Department of Health.

To find out more

Most doctors and over 400 specially-trained nurses across Victoria can take Pap tests. To find your nearest provider or for more information, visit the the PapScreen Victoria website or call the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20.