Category

Screening

The Importance of Cervical Screening Tests

By Screening

Cervical screening is a simple but powerful test that plays a vital role in preventing cervical cancer. In Australia, the Cervical Screening Test has replaced the Pap smear and is designed to detect the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is the main cause of most cervical cancers.

One of the most important reasons to have regular cervical screening is early detection. Cervical cancer often develops slowly and may not cause any symptoms in the early stages. The screening test can identify HPV before it leads to cell changes, allowing treatment or monitoring long before cancer develops. In Australia, cervical screening has significantly reduced rates of cervical cancer since its introduction.

The recommended interval for most people aged 25 to 74 is every five years, provided results are normal. Despite this, a significant number of eligible women are not up to date with their screening, often due to being busy, feeling well, or discomfort around the test. However, feeling well does not always mean everything is healthy.

Cervical screening is quick, safe, and can be lifesaving. It is one of the most effective preventative health measures available for women. Staying up to date ensures you are taking an active role in protecting your long-term health.

If you are unsure when your last test was, or if you are due, your GP can help you check and arrange your next screening.

 

05/26/2026

Putting Your Health First

By Screening

Putting your health first is essential especially for busy women balancing work, family, and caring responsibilities. In Australia, women are more likely than men to delay seeking healthcare due to time pressures or prioritising others, with many reporting they put off appointments even when symptoms are present. This delay can mean conditions such as cervical changes, breast cancer, thyroid disorders, iron deficiency, and mental health concerns go undetected until they become more advanced.

Preventive health care makes a significant difference. In Australia, breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in women, with a 1 in 7 lifetime risk. Regular screening through Breast Screen Australia contributes to earlier detection and improved survival outcomes. However, participation in screening for eligible women aged 50 to 74 sits at just over half, showing many women are still missing routine checks. Cervical screening has also significantly reduced cervical cancer rates, yet around 1 in 4 eligible women are not up to date with their tests.

Prioritising your health is not about adding another task to your list, it is about protecting your long-term wellbeing. Early detection, routine checks, and listening to your body are simple steps that make a lasting difference.

05/21/2026

Important Update: Australian Government Bowel Screening Program Now Includes 45-49 Year Olds

By Preventative health, Screening

The Australian Government has recently announced an important update to the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP). As of now, the program will be extended to include individuals aged 45-49. This significant change aims to improve early detection and treatment outcomes for bowel cancer, which remains one of the most common cancers affecting Australians.

Why This Change Matters

1. Early Detection Saves Lives Bowel cancer is highly treatable when detected early. By lowering the screening age to 45, the program aims to identify cancer or precancerous conditions sooner. Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and can reduce mortality rates associated with bowel cancer.

2. Rising Incidence in Younger Adults Recent studies have shown an increase in the incidence of bowel cancer among younger adults. Expanding the screening program to include 45-49 year olds addresses this growing concern and provides a proactive approach to managing the risk.

3. Improved Outcomes Through Regular Screening Regular screening is one of the most effective ways to detect bowel cancer early. The expanded age range means more Australians will have access to life-saving screening tests, contributing to better health outcomes and potentially lowering the burden on the healthcare system.

What You Need to Know

Eligibility and How to Participate If you are between the ages of 45 and 49, you will now receive an invitation to participate in the NBCSP. Eligible individuals will receive a free, easy-to-use bowel screening test kit in the mail. This non-invasive test can be completed in the privacy of your own home and then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Understanding the Test The bowel screening test detects traces of blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of bowel cancer or polyps. It is important to complete the test as instructed and return it promptly for analysis. If the test detects blood, you will be contacted for further diagnostic procedures, such as a colonoscopy, to investigate the cause.

Follow-Up and Support Receiving a positive test result can be concerning, but it’s important to remember that not all positive results indicate cancer. Many conditions can cause blood in the stool. If you receive a positive result, follow-up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes.

The Role of Healthcare Providers

Healthcare providers play a crucial role in the success of the expanded screening program. At Her Medical, we are committed to supporting our patients through the screening process. Our team is here to provide information, address any concerns, and guide you through the next steps if follow-up care is needed.

Conclusion

The extension of the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program to include 45-49 year olds is a positive and proactive step in the fight against bowel cancer. By participating in regular screening, you are taking an important step towards protecting your health and ensuring early detection of potential issues.

If you have any questions about the screening process or need assistance with your test kit, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Her Medical. We are here to support you every step of the way.

07/12/2024