Essential Guide to Cervical Cancer Screening for Every Age Group

Introduction to Cervical Cancer Screening 

While cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer affecting women worldwide, it is also one of the most preventable cancers in countries where there is access to cervical screening tests. Unfortunately, in low-income countries, where there is poor access to cervical cancer screening programs, many cervical cancer diagnoses are made when it is too late and account for 90% of deaths from cervical cancer worldwide.
 
Luckily, here in Australia, cervical cancer is taken seriously.  It is one of the most preventable cancers in women, thanks to the availability of free screening tests. The National Cervical Screening Program aims to prevent cervical cancer by detecting changes in the cervix early with regular testing. In doing so, this makes cervical cancer the 13th most common cancer affecting women in Australia, which is significantly lower than worldwide statistics! 

The National Cervical Screening Guidelines differ based on age.  Here at MedAdvisor, we are here to help you stay proactive in managing your health. So, let’s have a look at what the cervical cancer screening test looks for, what testing involves, age range-based guidelines and how Australia is leading the way when it comes to cervical cancer screening.  

Understanding Cervical Screening: What Every Woman Should Know 

Cervical screening is a new and more accurate way of testing for cervical cancer than the old “pap smear.”  This new type of testing looks for evidence of genital HPV virus.  Genital HPV doesn’t cause symptoms but can remain in your body and, over time, can lead to cancerous changes in your cervix.  So early detection really is the key! 

For routine testing, it’s a simple and easy swab of your vagina that is painless for most people, and if you prefer, you can even take the test yourself.  Once collected, your test will be processed at a lab, and then your healthcare provider will follow up with you about your results and any additional testing you might need.  

Age Ranges for Routine Cervical Screenings (Updated Guidelines)

The National Cervical Screening Programme offers subsidised cervical screening tests to you if you are: 

• aged between 25 and 74 
• sexually active or ever have been 
• a woman or person with a cervix.

Women vaccinated against HPV should follow screening recommendations, as the vaccine does not protect against all types of HPV.  Likewise, those who had a hysterectomy that did not include removal of the cervix can still get cervical cancer, so they should be tested.  

Guidelines on routine cervical screening testing vary depending on your age.  It’s essential to know which category you fall into for routine testing because, as we know, HPV often has no symptoms, and early detection is key!   

And remember, if your healthcare practitioner has recommended that your next screening test be sooner due to previous abnormal results or if you have abnormal or concerning symptoms, talk to your doctor, nurse, or healthcare provider.  

• Begin regular screenings at age 25. 
• Routine re-screening every five years. 

• Continue getting the Cervical Screening Test every five years. 
• If previous screenings have shown normal results, maintaining a five-year re-screening interval is sufficient. 

• Keep getting screened every five years unless advised otherwise by a healthcare provider. 
• After age 65, if all past results have been normal, screening may no longer be necessary after age 74. 
• Always check with your healthcare provider before ceasing routine screening.  

• Cervical screening may no longer be necessary if you've had a history of normal results. 

Cervical Screening vs. Ovarian Cancer: What You Need to Know 

Cervical cancer and ovarian cancer are often confused or assumed to be the same thing.  However, they are distinct conditions involving different parts of your female reproductive system. While engaging in routine Cervical Screening is a proactive way to manage your risk of cervical cancer, it does not manage your risk of ovarian cancer.  So, ensure you are looking after your ovaries and your cervix by discussing any symptoms or concerns with your healthcare provider.  

Cervical Screening in Australia: What Sets It Apart 

Australia’s National Cervical Screening Program has been a key contributor to reducing cervical cancer cases nationally. Since the introduction of the HPV test in 2017, more than 5.2 million women aged 25-74 participated in screening between 2018 and 2022​. In 2022, abnormalities were detected for 14 in every 1,000 people screened.  

For more information on how Australia is leading the world when it comes to cervical cancer screening, click here.  

Cervical cancer screening is a simple yet crucial step in protecting your health – and one so many worldwide don’t have access to. By following the guidelines, you can ensure that you stay proactive and preventative in managing your health.   If you’re due for a cervical screening, don’t wait! Because remember, early detection saves lives.