Australia is on a promising path to eliminate cervical cancer as a significant public health issue by 2035. This ambitious goal hinges on maintaining high vaccination and screening rates. However, recent data from Cancer Australia reveals that participation in cervical screening and follow-up care has been sluggish, particularly among younger women and those in regional areas.
In 2024, approximately 1,030 new cases of cervical cancer were diagnosed, along with 243 deaths, marking an increase from 177 cases the previous year. Cervical cancer now represents 1.4% of all new female cancer diagnoses and 1.1% of deaths from female cancers. Despite being one of the most preventable cancers globally, these figures highlight the challenges that remain.
A significant concern is the low screening rate. Only 68% of eligible women aged 25-74 participated in screening over the past five years, with the participation rate especially low among women aged 25-34 and those living in remote locations. Additionally, HPV vaccination coverage among adolescent girls has slipped to 81%, falling short of the 90% target set for 2030. To address this, health practitioners encourage catch-up vaccinations through general practitioners (GPs) and participating pharmacies.
Dr. Trupti Kanade, a gynaecologist at Complete Health Australia in Oran Park, emphasizes the collective responsibility in tackling this health issue. “While there is ongoing progress toward eliminating cervical cancer, the responsibility should be shared by everyone,” she stated. “We still see women delaying screening and waiting too long between an abnormal result and follow-up care. Self-collection is a practical way to reduce barriers. If attending a clinic is difficult, ask about self-collection – then follow through on any specialist care.”
Focusing on Under-Screened Populations
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women are particularly affected, with screening participation rates estimated to be around 20% lower than the national average. The delays between receiving an abnormal result and obtaining a colposcopy average about nine weeks, with longer wait times in regional areas. Digital health platforms such as Doctify are being leveraged to connect individuals in underserved areas with reliable specialists and screening clinics.
Australians can conveniently book a Cervical Screening Test or a follow-up appointment through Doctify, their GP, or local health services. These resources are vital in ensuring that care and prevention remain accessible.
Understanding the Importance of Cervical Screening
Most early cervical changes do not present noticeable symptoms, making regular screening essential. Warning signs that may indicate more advanced stages of the disease include abnormal bleeding, persistent pelvic pain, or unusual discharge, all of which should prompt consultation with a medical professional.
There are several common misconceptions surrounding cervical cancer that need addressing. One prevalent belief is that receiving the HPV vaccine negates the need for screening. While the vaccine protects against many HPV types associated with cancer, it does not cover all. Another myth is that self-collection for screening is less accurate; however, research indicates that self-collected samples are as reliable as those collected by clinicians when tested with modern HPV assays. Furthermore, about a quarter of cervical cancer cases in Australia occur in women under 40, underscoring the necessity for early participation in screening programs.
Dr. Kanade reiterates the potential for progress: “Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers among women. We have the tools – vaccination, screening, and timely treatment – to make elimination a reality. What we need now is for everyone with a cervix to feel informed and supported to take that step.”
Australians are encouraged to book cervical screenings through Doctify, their GP, or local clinic, and consider self-collection options. Those who missed the HPV vaccine during school can still access it for free through GPs and pharmacies, reinforcing the message that prevention should be straightforward and accessible for all.
