News release

Preventing Cervical Cancer

Cancer Care Nova Scotia

Cervical cancer, like childhood measles, may one day be a disease of the past as more and more women have regular Pap tests and parents have their daughters vaccinated against the human papilloma virus, commonly known as HPV.

This message will be shared during a public information session on Thursday, Oct. 23, at the Nova Scotia Community College in Bridgewater. The event is part of Pap Test Awareness Week which runs from Oct. 19 to 25.

"Cervical cancer generally has no signs or symptoms until it is advanced," said Dr. Rob Grimshaw of the Cervical Cancer Prevention Program. "The good news is that cervical cancer can be prevented with a regular Pap test. I strongly encourage all women to have regular Pap tests."

Provincial Pap screening guidelines vary depending on a woman's age and her Pap test history. Women should speak with their family doctors or health care providers about what regular means for them.

The HPV vaccine became part of the school-based vaccination program for Grade 7 girls last year. It is another important tool in the fight against cervical cancer. While the vaccine does not replace the need for regular Pap tests, it may help make cervical cancer a disease of the past.

HPV is a very common family of viruses that is spread through skin to skin contact. Virtually everyone is exposed to it by adulthood. Generally, there are no symptoms and the virus clears up without treatment, but a few types of the virus cause almost all cervical cancers.

Research has shown that the vaccine, when given prior to the onset of sexual activity, provides almost 100 per cent protection against the two types of HPV that cause about 70 per cent of cervical cancers.

"Media reviews about the value of the HPV vaccine have been mixed and I know some parents have questions and concerns about the message that vaccinating their 12-year-old daughters may be giving to them about sexual activity," said Dr. Grimshaw. "I encourage parents who have questions or concerns to speak with their family doctor or other health provider. As a cancer specialist, I reviewed all the studies and I believe there is strong evidence to support the value of the vaccine, so much so that my daughter has been vaccinated."

Cancer Care Nova Scotia's Cervical Cancer Prevention Program is dedicated to reducing the incidence of cervical cancer in Nova Scotia. Strategies are aimed at educating women about the importance of regular Pap tests, and putting measures in place to support women to take appropriate action.

Nova Scotians who would like to learn more about Pap testing and the HPV virus, or to request a copy of their Pap test history may call the Cervical Cancer Prevention Program at 1-888-480-8588.