Cervical Screening Awareness Month a prompt for MidCentral DHB women

30/08/2011 | Cervical Screening Awareness Month

Women in MidCentral DHB region are being urged to use September – Cervical Screening Awareness Month – as a prompt to take control of their own health.

Dr Anne Robertson from MidCentral DHB says cervical cancer is one of the most preventable of all cancers, and having regular cervical smears can reduce your risk of developing it by 90 percent.

“While some cancers appear with little warning and little is known about how they could have been prevented, cervical cancer is different. It is very preventable, and that’s why women are being encouraged to use Cervical Screening Awareness Month as a prompt to have a think about when they last had a cervical smear test.”

During September a number of additional cervical screening clinics will be provided for women throughout the MidCentral District. For a list of the times and venues please call 0800 729 729. 

“Our cervical screening health promoters will be handing out information brochures and a number of freebies at various places so keep an eye out for them.”
 
Dr Robertson says cell changes to the cervix can lead to cervical cancer.
 
“These cell changes are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) virus, which the majority of people come into contact with at some stage in their life. But the changes happen very slowly, so by having regular smears, there is a very high likelihood that abnormal cells will be found and treated long before they ever become cancer.

“Investing a small amount of time in having regular cervical smears could save your life. Regular cervical smear tests every three years are recommended from the age of 20 to 70 for women who have ever been sexually active.

“This month, I hope MidCentral DHB women book in for a smear test if it is due or overdue.”

She says women who are not sure when their smear is due, or who want to become part of the Programme, can ring the freephone number – 0800 729 729.

“There are lots of things in life that you can’t control, but by having a regular cervical smear test you can greatly reduce your likelihood of developing cervical cancer.”

For further information:
Barb.bradnock@midcentraldhb.govt.nz or telephone (06) 350-8837.