The Cancer Council Victoria is encouraging Wyndham residents to regularly get tested for cervical cancer.
A recent Cancer Council Victoria survey found that only 15 per cent of respondents have heard about self-collection as a possible option to screen for cervical cancer.
Data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare shows that 40.6 per cent of women and people with cervix aged 25 to 74, who live in Wyndham, are up-to-date with cervical screening.
The Cancer Council Victoria and Australian Centre for the Prevention of Cervical Cancer have partnered for a new campaign, funded by the state government, to raise awareness of self-collection as a reliable method for detecting HPV (human papillomavirus), which causes almost all cervical cancers.
The self-collection service is available to women and people with a cervix who are aged over 30; who are overdue for a cervical screening test by two years or more; and who have never been screened, even if they do not have symptoms.
The test can be done by an individual collecting their own sample with a swab, similar to the ones used for COVID tests, at a GP clinic or other healthcare setting, usually behind a private screen or in the bathroom.
Cancer Council Victoria screening program manager, Kate Broun, said more than 70 per cent of cervical cancers occur in women and people with a cervix who have never been screened or who have lapsed their regular screening.
“We know that many, particularly from priority communities, face a range of barriers to accessing screening. Self-collection provides an opportunity to address these barriers,” Ms Broun said.
“For those who have never screened, research shows that taking part in self-collection could reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer by around 40 per cent.”
Ms Broun said the she self-screening test was “free, easy to do yourself and reliable”.
“We are urging Victorians to take advantage of this opportunity to prevent cervical cancer and protect their future,” she said.
“If you think you could be eligible for self-collection, don’t wait until July next year, speak to your GP or nurse today.”
Details: www.cancervic.org.au/selfcollection
