Time is running out for young women aged 13-26 years to receive the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine for free.
Young women need to start the course before June 30 and finish all 3 doses by 31 December to be eligible for the free vaccine. HPV is a very common virus, which can cause skin warts, genital warts and if left undetected may lead to cancer of the cervix.
Cancer of the cervix is the second most common cause of cancer among women worldwide. Australia has one of the lowest mortality rates from cervical cancer in the world, however each year there are more than 700 cases still diagnosed and over 200 women die from the disease.
NT Head of Immunisation Dr Rosalind Webby said "The HPV vaccine does not prevent all cervical cancers so women need to continue having Pap smears every 2 years".
Dr Webby urged all young women who have missed a dose or want to start the course to visit their GP or Health Clinic.
"The best strategy for cervical cancer prevention is a combination of regular Pap smears and HPV vaccination," said Dr Webby.
For more information on the cervical cancer program visit: www.cervicalcancer.com.au
Media contacts: Cameron Jackson 0401 114 113; Gino Luglietti 0401 116 144
Release date: Monday 15 June 2009
