🌸 What Is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer begins in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus. It is primarily caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV).
In Australia, around 900 women are diagnosed each year. However, 80–90% of cases can be prevented through early screening.
Cervical cancer often shows no early symptoms, making regular screening vital for early detection and prevention.
🧬 What Is HPV?
HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a virus transmitted mainly through sexual contact.
There are over 100 types of HPV, with 14 considered high-risk for cancer. Types 16 and 18 are responsible for over 70% of cervical cancer cases.
While most HPV infections resolve naturally, persistent infections can lead to cancer over time.
⚠️ Risk Factors for Cervical Cancer
- High-risk HPV infection
- Smoking, which weakens cervical immunity
- Weakened immune system (e.g., HIV, long-term immunosuppressants)
- Multiple childbirths or early sexual activity
- Long-term use of oral contraceptives
🔍 Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
- Post-sex or unusual vaginal bleeding
- Heavy or irregular periods
- Pelvic pain
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Painful urination
🔬 HPV Test vs. Pap Test
The Pap test checks for cell changes in the cervix and was performed every two years.
The HPV test detects the presence of the virus itself, allowing earlier intervention before cells become abnormal.
Since 2017, Australia uses a 5-year HPV testing program, which is more accurate and has helped reduce cervical cancer deaths by up to 50%.
👩⚕️ Who Should Get Tested & Self-Collection
- Eligibility: All people aged 25–74 with a cervix
- Frequency: Every 5 years if asymptomatic
- Options: In-clinic testing or self-collection using a swab
- Since 2022, self-collection is available to all eligible participants
- Accuracy of self-collection is comparable to clinician-collected samples
📄 Understanding Your Test Results
Results are usually available within 2–3 weeks:
- Negative (no HPV): Retest in 5 years
- Low-risk HPV detected: Retest in 12 months
- High-risk HPV detected: Further tests like colposcopy are needed
Always consult your GP to interpret results and determine next steps.
💪 How to Prevent Cervical Cancer
- Routine HPV screening
- HPV vaccination (e.g., Gardasil 9)
- Avoid smoking
- Practice safe sex
- Maintain a healthy diet and weight
🏥 Diagnosis & Treatment
If diagnosed with cervical cancer, treatment depends on the stage and spread:
- Staging: Imaging tests like MRI, CT, or biopsy help determine cancer progression
- Surgery: Cervical conization or hysterectomy depending on severity
- Radiation therapy: Often used in advanced cases, may be combined with chemo
- Chemotherapy: Used in advanced or metastatic cases
- Follow-up: Regular scans and checkups post-treatment
Support services such as counseling, rehabilitation, and nutrition guidance are also essential.
📚 External Resources
- Australian Government – National Cervical Screening Program
- Cancer Council – Cervical Cancer Guidelines
- NCSR – National Cancer Screening Register
✅ Book your HPV test now to stay ahead. Early screening can save lives.