Women missing Pap smears
In an article out today it has been revealed that almost one in four women in New South Wales are putting their health at risk by failing to have regular pap smears to check for cervical cancer. No doubt these numbers will be similar through out Australia, and the world.
These are alarming statistics. It is advised that all women who are over 18 and have been sexually active at any stage of their lives to have a Pap smear every 2 years until age 70 years. Regular Pap smears every two years can help prevent up to 90 per cent of the most common type of cervical cancer.
“Cervical cancer can be fatal, but it can be prevented and treated if detected early enough … over 80 per cent of cervical cancers occur in women who have not had a regular Pap test.â€
About 740 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year in Australia. Of this around 270 women will die. Please be sure you are having regular Pap smears.
Visit the National Cervical Screening Program or speak with your local GP for more information.
Filed Under: Health
