Regular Pap Tests Proven to Save Lives

Regular Pap tests can prevent cervical cancer. This is critical information for all women, and communicating this message is the goal of the Pap Test Awareness Week campaign launched today at the YWCA in Halifax.

Over the next three weeks, print, radio and television advertisements featuring Cathy Jones from CBC Television's "This Hour Has 22 Minutes" will carry the message throughout Nova Scotia.

Tish McEachern knows first-hand the importance of regular Pap tests and shares her story with others whenever she sees an opportunity.

"I've always known that having regular Pap tests is important," she said. "But eight years ago, I found out just how important. Following a routine Pap test, I was diagnosed with dysplasia (precancerous cells in the cervix). I received treatment and haven't had any problems since. Of course, I continue to schedule regular Pap tests."

Headed by the Nova Scotia Gynaecological Cancer Screening Programme, Pap Test Awareness Week is designed to heighten awareness around the value of regular Pap tests in preventing cervical cancer. Partners in the planning for the week include Cancer Care Nova Scotia, the Department of Health, the Medical Society of Nova Scotia and the Canadian Cancer Society - Nova Scotia Division.

"A Pap test is the most effective way to detect early changes in the cells of the cervix before they develop into cancer," said Dr. Andrew Padmos, commissioner, Cancer Care Nova Scotia. "Regretfully, 1,450 Canadian women are diagnosed each year with cervical cancer. Probably 95 per cent of these cases could have been prevented through regular Pap testing. In Nova Scotia, this means that approximately 50 women are diagnosed each year with cervical cancer. The success rate of screening is so high that action is imperative. We must remind all women in Nova Scotia that cervical cancer can be easily prevented and encourage them to schedule regular Pap tests."

"In Nova Scotia, less than 40 per cent of women schedule regular Pap tests," said Jamie Muir, Minister of Health. "That simply must change. As Minister of Health, I'm saying to Nova Scotian women, 'Get a Pap test. Please -- for yourselves and for the people who want you to stay in their lives for a long time.' I also want to commend the people working so hard to make sure this week helps more women get screened."

"Generally, women of child-bearing years are well-screened," said Dr. Robert Grimshaw, executive director of the Nova Scotia Gynaecological Cancer Screening Programme. "Our information indicates that women 40 years and over are under-screened and the reasons vary. Some believe once they have had their children or have reached menopause, they no longer need to continue having Pap tests. Others don't get around to making that appointment. Some find the procedure embarrassing. We believe that awareness and education are key in changing these statistics."

"In Nova Scotia our guidelines indicate that all women 18 years and over, or earlier if they are sexually active, need annual Pap tests to prevent cervical cancer," said Dr. Bruce Wright, president of the Medical Society of Nova Scotia. "The best scenario is when physicians and women work together. It is essential that physicians ask their patients when they had their last Pap test and offer information on the value of an annual Pap. At the same time, we hope women feel comfortable in approaching their family doctor about scheduling a Pap."

"Given that regular Pap tests can prevent cervical cancer, it is important that we ensure women in Nova Scotia are aware of and have access to information on cervical cancer and the benefits of early detection," said Maureen Summers, executive director of the Canadian Cancer Society Nova Scotia Division. "The few moments it takes to do a Pap test are well worth it when you consider the alternative, a cancer diagnosis that could have been prevented."