Cervical cancer
In New Zealand, about 160 women develop cervical cancer each year – and about 60 die from it.
Taku hauora, taku tinana, taku tūmanako
My health, my body, my future
Cervical cancer is caused by some strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a very common virus that is passed on by sexual contact.
You can help protect yourself against cervical cancer by:
- having the HPV immunisation (when you’re young)
- having regular cervical smear tests as an adult, if you’ve ever been sexually active.
Cervical smears
Having regular smear tests can reduce a woman’s risk of developing cervical cancer by 90 percent.
A woman’s best protection against developing cervical cancer is having regular cervical smear tests.
A cervical smear test is a screening test to find abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix
All women who have ever been sexually active should have regular cervical smear tests from the time they turn 20 until they turn 70.
Women who have had a total hysterectomy don’t usually need to have smear tests unless advised to do so.
Cervical smears are available from general practitioners or nurses, marae-based or other Māori health centres, Pacific and women’s health centres, and Family Planning clinics. The cost of a smear test is similar to the cost of seeing a doctor or nurse. Some community organisations offer a free or low-cost service.
Changes to cells in the cervix happen very slowly – so by having regular smears, there is a very high likelihood that any abnormal cells will be found and treated long before they become cancer.
- The National Cervical Screening Programme recommends that women have a cervical smear test every three years.
- Women who have previously had abnormal smears may need to have them more often – if you’re unsure, ask your doctor.
HPV immunisation
Because of HPV immunisation and screening, cervical cancer is now one of the most preventable of all cancers.
- The HPV immunisation protects young women against the two common types of HPV (types 16 and 18) that cause around 70 percent of cervical cancer.
- It also protects them against genital warts (types 6 and 11).
Women who have had the HPV immunisation still need to have regular cervical smears – because the vaccine doesn’t protect against all the types of HPV that can cause cervical cancer.
Where to get more information
To find out more about the free cervical cancer vaccine, or the cervical cancer screening programme, talk to your doctor, practice nurse or health clinic.
Related websites
- National Cervical Screening Programme - The National Cervical Screening Programme is available to all women in New Zealand aged between 20 and 70. The screening checks for abnormal cell changes to the cervix, reducing the risk of women developing cervical cancer.
Cancer Society
The Cancer Society of New Zealand is the country’s largest source of information about cancer and its effects. This website provides information on types of cancer, diagnosis, methods of treatment and advice on living with cancer. You can read information online, as free printed booklets (detailed information), or Information Sheets (the brief facts).
New Zealand Gynaecological Cancer Foundation
Information and support for women with gynaecological cancers, including cervical cancer.
Best Health
The Ministry of Health has funded free access to this British Medical Journal website for people browsing the web from New Zealand. It provides information on different cancers and describes treatments that work or are likely to work, the harms and benefits, treatments that are unlikely to work or may be harmful and information on tests and operations.
Better Health Channel
The Better Health Channel was established by the Victorian (Australia) State Government. It provides a wide range of health and medical information on conditions including cancer.
Find out more from the Ministry
HPV immunisation programme – Information about the HPV immunisation programme and HPV vaccine, including Q&As.
National Screening Unit – The National Screening Unit is responsible for the development, management and monitoring of nationally-organised population-based screening in New Zealand.
Cancer control – The Ministry leads a national work programme that provides a strategic focus for cancer control and for system-wide improvements across the spectrum of cancer services.
Resources
Cervical Cancer Vaccine
Information for girls, young women and their families on the vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV).
Available on HealthEd in 15 languages.
Prevention of Cervical Cancer: A Guide for Women in New Zealand
Detailed information about smear tests, cervical cancer, abnormal cells, colposcopy, biopsy, and the National Screening Programme.
Available on HealthEd.
Cervical Smear Tests: What Women Need to Know
About the National Cervical Cancer Screening Programme, which aims to prevent cervical cancer by providing regular smear tests for all eligible women in New Zealand.
Available on HealthEd.
Cervical Screening: Understanding Cervical Smear Test Results
Explains cervical screening smear tests and how these can aid in the early detection of cervical cancer.
Available on HealthEd
Colposcopy: Information for Women Who Have Abnormal Smear Test Results
Information for women who need to have a colposcopy and biopsy following an abnormal cervical smear test result.
Available on HealthEd.
Smear Test Reminder Card
Reminder card for your wallet. Opens out to show a calendar.
Available on HealthEd.
Page last updated: 06 March 2012
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