Health and Social Services Minister Jamie Ballem launched a campaign today to increase regular Pap screening among Island women and reduce the high rates of cervical cancer in Prince Edward Island. Today is the first day of Pap Test Awareness Week
A campaign begins today to encourage Island women between the ages of 20 and 69 to be regularly screened for cervical cancer at least every two years. Island women can expect to see television and radio commercials asking them to call their doctor to book a Pap test if they have not recently been screened for cervical cancer. The campaign materials feature three generations of Island women using the caption, you can prevent cervical cancer. More than 20,000 brochures, posters and pocket calendars will be distributed to the public through local pharmacies, physician and public health nursing offices, family resource centres, women's groups, shopping malls and hairdressers.
Minister Ballem advised that cervical cancer is one of the easiest cancers to prevent and the only cancer that can be prevented by screening. "Despite these facts, the rate of cervical cancer in Prince Edward Island is increasing while the national rates of cervical cancer are decreasing. The majority of cervical cancer cases are found in women who have not been regularly screened," he said.
"We are pleased to work with the Medical Society of PEI and the PEI Division of the Canadian Cancer Society to increase awareness among Island women that regular Pap screening can prevent cervical cancer, and maybe even save their life."
Dr. Janet Baker, family physician, indicated that unlike other types of cancer screening, a Pap test detects very early cell changes. "These cell changes can be treated before cancer develops. If women do not have regular Pap tests, there is no way to detect early cells changes. For these women, their risk of developing cervical cancer is higher," said Dr. Baker. "Women also need Pap tests when they are past childbearing years and in some cases even if they have had a hysterectomy."
"It is important for women to take responsibility for their health by asking their doctor for a Pap test," she said.
A study conducted by the Department of Health and Social Services in May indicated that most women are aware that they should be having Pap tests, but were unaware that the test can prevent cervical cancer. Women in the study also suggested that they did not need a regular Pap test because they felt fine.
Dr. Linda Van Til, Epidemiologist with the Department of Health and Social Services advised that the results of this study show that awareness and education are essential. "The campaign we launch today will educate women about the importance of having a Pap test regularly.
Women need to be aware that there are no signs or symptoms with early cell changes. The whole point is to treat cell changes early before cancer develops," said Dr. Van Til
A Cervical Cancer Screening Advisory Committee reporting to the Minister of Health and Social Services has been established to provide input on ways to ensure women continue to be screened regularly.