Australia wants to be first nation in the world to eliminate a cancer - can it?
Summary
Australia aims to be the first country to eliminate cervical cancer by using a combination of widespread HPV vaccination and improved cervical screening tests. The HPV vaccine, introduced nationally in 2007, helps prevent the virus that can cause cervical cancer, and new screening methods make it easier to detect the disease early.Key Facts
- Australia started a national HPV vaccination program in 2007, the first country to do so.
- The HPV vaccine protects against high-risk strains that can lead to cervical cancer.
- In 2013, boys were included in the vaccination program to reduce virus spread.
- Australia switched from pap smear tests to more sensitive HPV-based cervical screening in 2017, done every five years.
- Women can now collect their own cervical screening samples, helping those uncomfortable with exams.
- Australia hopes to eliminate cervical cancer within a decade due to these combined efforts.
- Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide but is preventable through vaccination.
- Researchers and health officials see Australia’s approach as a model for other countries and the WHO.
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