Death rates from cervical cancer have plummeted among Territory women according to a new report released by the Department of Health and Families (DHF).
'Cancer Incidence and Mortality, Northern Territory 1991-2005' provides information on the trends in cancer rates over a fifteen year period. During that time there was a 64% decline in cervical cancer death rates among non-Indigenous women and an even greater 92% decline among Indigenous women in the Territory.
DHF Health Gains Planning branch Director, Dr Steve Guthridge, says that cervical cancer is preventable and the improvements highlight the high level of participation by Territory women in cervical screening and the effective follow-up treatment of abnormalities.
"Overall, cancer incidence has remained relatively stable over the fifteen-year period while there has been an improvement in cancer mortality."
"In the past, access by Indigenous women to screening programs has lagged behind non-Indigenous women but improved services and better awareness of cervical cancer has resulted in greater participation in screening programs and a positive plummet in both cervical incidence and mortality rates."
"The introduction of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccination will further reduce future incidence and mortality from cervical cancer," says Dr Guthridge.
Women should have a regular pap smear from their local GP, Aboriginal Medical Service or remote health clinic.
The most common cancers in Territory men are lung and prostate cancer, while for women the most common cancers are breast, lung and colorectal cancer.
Media Contact: Cameron Jackson, DHF Media Liaison Officer 0401 116 144
Release date: 25 November 2008
