Member for Myall Lakes, Tanya Thompson is encouraging residents to ensure they are up to date with their Cervical Screening Tests, after it was revealed more than 40 per cent of eligible people are falling behind.
Mrs Thompson said the campaign launched by the Cancer Institute of NSW is an important and timely one to remind people to put their health first.
“Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, which is why I am encouraging our community to check and make sure you have had your latest checks,” said Mrs Thompson.
“The shocking truth is that more than 70 per cent of cases occur in people who have never been screened or are not up to date with their cervical cancer screening, and that should serve as a big wakeup call for everyone.
“This quick and simple procedure could save a life; you don’t need a specialist; a quick visit to your regular doctor is all it takes.”
Shadow Minister for Regional Health Gurmesh Singh said a Cervical Screening Test is needed every five years.
“Cervical cancer kills one in every three Australians who are diagnosed with the disease, and the best way to avoid that is to keep up to date with your checks so it can be caught as early as possible,” Mr Singh said.
“We all have busy lives and it’s easy to let these things fall by the wayside, so let this be a chance to book in your next appointment and remind your loved ones to do the same.
“There are also options these days to either have your test done by a healthcare provider, or opt for a self-collection test, so you can choose what you are more comfortable with.”
A Cervical Screening Test is recommended for eligible people aged 25 to 74 who have ever been sexually active, and is available at locations including medical centres, community health centres or sexual health clinics.
For more details, please visit:
Cervical screening for multicultural women | Cancer Institute NSW
www.cancer.nsw.gov.au/prevention-and-screening/screening-and-early-detection/cervical-screening
www.cancer.nsw.gov.au/prevention-and-screening/preventing-cancer/campaigns
