Island Women encouraged to get screened for cervical cancer

During national Cervical Cancer Awareness Week, October 20-25, Island women are reminded how important it is to be screened regularly for cervical cancer.

Regular screening with a Pap test to detect abnormal changes in the cells at an early stage can help prevent cervical cancer and improve chances for a complete recovery. 

“We’re making sure that screening services for women are convenient and easy to access. In general, women should have a regular pap test every three years, so we encourage Island women to learn more about cervical cancer risk factors and make an appointment to get screened today.” 

- Health and Wellness Minister James Aylward

“Having a pap test is important to catch early signs of cervical cancer, so it is essential to make time for it in your schedule.” said Anja Nied-Kutterer, PEI Cervical Cancer Screening Program Coordinator. “We know that cancer screening can save lives, and with changes to the provincial screening guidelines, it is recommended that Islanders go for screening at age 25.” 

The current pap screening guidelines recommend women should have a Pap test if they:

• are 25-65 years of age and have been sexually active (including intercourse, as well as oral or touch with a partner’s genital area, male or female);
• are over 65 years of age and have not had three negative tests in the last 10 years.

“With vaccination against HPV, the virus known to cause cervical cancer, and early detection through screening, cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer,” said Natalie Jameson, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women. “Take the time to look after yourself, for your family and the ones you love.”

Cervical Cancer Pap Clinics are located across PEI in Souris, Montague, Charlottetown, Summerside, Tyne Valley, Lennox Island, O’Leary, Alberton and Tignish.

Media Contact:
Jessica Bruce
Health PEI Senior Communications Officer
jessicabruce@gov.pe.ca
902-388-1292