16/01/2026
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. Cervical Cancer is the growth of abnormal cells in the lining of the cervix and is one of the most preventable cancers. Almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV, which can be detected by doing the Cervical Screening Test.
All people with a cervix aged between 25 and 74 are reminded to have a cervical screening test every 5 years. (instead of the old Pap Smear test every 2 years) You can now self-collect your Cervical Screening Test sample if you feel more comfortable with this option. Talk to your healthcare provider or learn more about the test here: www.cancer.org.au/cervicalscreening/what-do-i-need-to-know-about-the-test
Reference: Cancer Council