Recent data reveals a significant increase in cervical cancer self-screening rates among Australian women, marking a milestone in the nation’s fight against the disease. The success of Labor’s self-collection screening option has led to thousands of women undergoing life-saving tests for cervical cancer.
Annually, approximately 800 women in Australia are diagnosed with cervical cancer, with around 70% of these cases occurring in individuals who have never undergone screening or are not up-to-date with their screenings. Regular screening tests remain the most effective method for protection against cervical cancer.
In July 2022, Labor expanded screening test options by introducing self-collection as an alternative for all women aged between 25 and 74 participating in a Cervical Screening Test. While the traditional ‘pap smear’ test remains available, many women have found it uncomfortable, potentially leading to avoidance of cervical cancer screening.
Newly released data on HPV Awareness Day reveals that over 315,000 Australian women have opted for self-collection screening. This method now accounts for 27% of all screening tests, marking a substantial increase from 1% before the expansion.
The option for self-screening, offering greater privacy and discretion, has been particularly beneficial for individuals who have never undergone screening or are overdue for it. Over the past year, one in three first-time screeners and 40% of overdue screeners have chosen the self-collection option.
In the Northern Territory, self-collection rates surpass the national average, standing at 47%. Furthermore, older women aged between 70 and 74 are leading the trend, with 34% opting for self-collection.
Self-collection screening is available at various cervical screening facilities, including GP clinics, women’s health clinics, Aboriginal health centers, and other healthcare providers.
Australia aims to become the first country to eliminate cervical cancer by 2035, following the release of the National Strategy for the Elimination of Cervical Cancer and a $48.2 million investment to support implementation.
Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care Ged Kearney emphasized the significance of Labor’s expansion of self-collection testing, highlighting its role in saving lives and encouraging women who would otherwise not undergo screening to take the test. Kearney emphasized the importance of providing tailored and accessible healthcare to women, with self-collection tests offering increased privacy and cultural safety, particularly in remote areas. She hailed the increase in testing rates among First Nations Australians in the Northern Territory as a success story, underscoring Australia’s progress towards eliminating cervical cancer.
