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National Cervical Screening Programme

Women are encouraged to have regular cervical smear tests from the time they turn 20 until they turn 70.

Did you know that...

  • Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable of all cancers.
  • A woman's best protection against developing cervical cancer is having regular cervical smear tests.
  • Cervical cancer is caused by human papilloma virus (HPV), a common, sexually transmitted infection.
  • There are many types of HPV and only a few "high risk" types can lead to abnormal precancerous cells.
  • Only women with a persistent infection (one which does not clear on its own) with a "high risk" HPV type are at risk of cervical cancer, if the abnormal cells are not detected by screening. 
  • A cervical smear test is a screening test to find abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix.
  • Regular cervical smear tests every three years are recommended for women from the age of 20 until they turn 70 if they have ever been sexually active.
  • Having regular cervical smears can reduce a woman's risk of developing cervical cancer by 90 percent.




Image of Lillian's story Story.

Lillian's story

Lillian has been diagnosed with pre-cancerous cells on her cervix and has had them removed. This is her story.


Read her story...
Image of Taua Mekura Briggs Story.

Taua Mekura Briggs

Encouraging our Wahine to have regular cervical smear tests.


Read her story...
Image of Doreen's story Story.

Doreen's story

Doreen was diagnosed with cervical cancer in 1990 when she was in her early 60s. She urges all women between 20 and 70 not to be shy, and have regular cervical smears.


Read her story...
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National Cervical Screening Campaign

PHONE 0800 729 729 TO UPDATE YOUR DETAILS ON THE NCSP-REGISTER

Cervical Screening Communications Campaign