Her
The Times Real Estate

News

Australians are unaware this nation could become the first country in the world to eliminate cervical cancer,  a new consumer poll says.

The poll, released by the Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation to launch National Cervical Cancer Awareness Week, says four out of five Aussies are unaware of this potential milestone.

The trailblazing efforts of Australia in cervical cancer prevention over the last 20 years have led the world, with our successes bringing us to the critical point where we could be first country to eliminate a cancer.  Yet despite our significant strides in scientific and public health innovation and considerable Government investment in national prevention programs, it appears many Australians remain unclear how they can help make cervical cancer history. Only half of Australians surveyed believed they can play a role.
Cervical cancer is almost always caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common, sexually transmitted infection. It is possible to prevent up to 93% of potentially harmful HPV infections with vaccination. However 43% of Australians surveyed did not believe vaccination could prevent the life-threatening cancer.  
Australian scientist Professor Ian Frazer co-invented the HPV vaccine that is now used globally to prevent cervical cancer. In 2007, Australia became the first country to launch a national funded schools-based HPV vaccination program. Since vaccination was introduced, HPV infections and pre-cancers have plummeted.
Australia’s National Cervical Screening Program, which is used to identify persistent HPV infections early before they become cervical cancer, has been in place since 1991.  Since it was introduced, the program has halved the number of new cervical cancer diagnoses and the number deaths from cervical cancer, but 32% of Australians surveyed did not identify screening as a prevention strategy.
Reflecting on the findings of the consumer poll, Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation CEO Vicky Darling said: “These results are concerning and suggest despite our best efforts there may be a major gap in Australians’ understanding of the main cause of cervical cancer and how to prevent it.
“We know our world-leading cervical cancer prevention programs work, but we can’t afford to become complacent and lose the focus or the momentum we have created. We have the tools we need to eliminate cervical cancer readily accessible, but we need to continue with our national prevention programs and invest in public education to ensure we all understand the role we can play to help make cervical cancer history and that importantly, no one is left behind,” said Ms Darling.
“This National Cervical Cancer Awareness Week, the Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation is calling on all Australians to help make cervical cancer history.
“Women and people with a cervix: Make sure you’re enrolled in the National Cervical Screening Program and screen every five years - either through self-collection or collection by a healthcare professional. If you have symptoms such as abnormal bleeding, unusual discharge, pain during intercourse make sure to speak to a health professional.
“Parents of young people aged 12 – 19 years: Make sure all your children get their full course of HPV vaccination at school or see your GP, or other accredited vaccination provider, for any missed HPV vaccinations.
“Policymakers, organisations and individuals who share our vision to make cervical cancer history. Help us find the funding for the social research, education and awareness needed to ensure Australians understand the power they have to help make cervical cancer history.
Ged Kearney  Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care said: “Australian women and people with a cervix deserve a future free from cervical cancer. With elimination within reach, we can all take positive action to keep us on track to achieving this important goal. Australia has delivered many firsts when it has come to cervical cancer prevention through vaccination and screening. The ultimate ‘first’ is now within our reach. We need everyone to play a role."

Photo: Antonino Visalli/Unsplash

Why a Cosmetic Clinic Melbourne is Your Gateway to Confidence

If you're considering enhancing your natural beauty or addressing aesthetic concerns, a reputable Cosmetic Clinic Melbourne is your ideal partner in this transformative journey. But what exactly makes a cosmetic clinic in Melbourne a worthwhile investment? And how do you... Read more

Fun workouts to try with your girlfriends this month

March is the month to celebrate women! And what better way than grabbing a group of your girlfriends and trying some of the most trending new workouts that have landed in Australia recently. Working out in a group environment is... Read more

How to Combat a Receding Hairline: Effective Strategies for Men and Women

A receding hairline is a common hair problem that both men and women typically face, though it tends to affect men more frequently.  Hairline recession caused by androgenetic alopecia (otherwise known as patterned hair loss), is a natural part of aging... Read more

Study Reveals Impact of Socioeconomic Status on Mental Health

Mental ill health is Australia’s leading health condition. In any given year, 1 in 5 Australians between the ages of 16 and 85 will experience a mental illness.  Global events and economic instability may have contributed to more people experiencing poor... Read more

Discover the Best Cosmetic Clinic in Bundoora: Your Guide to Flawless Skin and Confidence

Whether you're looking to rejuvenate your skin, contour your body, or boost your confidence with a non-invasive treatment, a cosmetic clinic in Bundoora can help you achieve your goals. This article will guide you through the services, benefits, and considerations... Read more

Emergency Dentist in Melbourne: Your Guide to Immediate Dental Care

Dental emergencies can strike at any time, causing pain, discomfort, or anxiety. Knowing how to handle these situations and where to find an emergency dentist in Melbourne can make all the difference. This guide provides valuable insights into common dental... Read more

Magazine

Free mental health webinars for Mental Health Month this October

Despite technology (or perhaps because of it), our lives seem to be busier than ever, and we are less connected. Many of us fe...

5 Great Ways to Imbue Your Rental Home with Timeless Australian Style

Australian interior design is quite unique, and chances are that you would be able to spot an Aussie-style interior even if you ...

Guide to an Action-Packed Summer in Lake Mac

Panning a fun-in-the-sun getaway for the summer holidays? Don’t risk delays and cancellations at the airport, grab the family an...