The role of the Pap smear in the prevention of invasive cervical cancer through the detection and subsequent treatment of potentially precancerous cervical abnormalities has been well documented. Evidence suggests that up to 90% of cervical cancers can be prevented by organised screening programs.
In 1989/90, the proportion of Queensland women (aged 18-64 years) who had had a Pap smear within the last year exceeded the national average (49% and 43% respectively), as did the proportion who had had a Pap smear within the last three years (75% and 71% respectively). Between 1993 and 1996 there has been an increase in the proportion of Queensland women aged 18-29 and, to a lesser degree, those aged 50-59 who reported having had a Pap smear within the recommended time period of two years. However, for other age groups there has been a slight decrease in the proportion screened within two years (see attachment 8).
Breast cancer is the most common cause of death from cancer in Queensland women, and the lifetime risk of a woman developing breast cancer is approximately 1 in 15. Mammography is recommended as the most effective screening method for the early detection of cancers. Trials have shown a 30% reduction in mortality among women aged 50-69 years who have been regularly screened, and it is estimated that women over 50 who are regularly screened will halve their risk of dying from breast cancer.
Data from the 1989/90 National Health Survey indicates that, of the States, Queensland had the highest proportion of women (aged 50-64 years) who had had a mammogram within the last three years (see attachment 9).
Of the States and Territories, Queensland has the second lowest rates of immunisation. In 1995, less than 50% of children aged 3 months to 6 years were fully immunised according to the 1991 NHMRC recommended schedule, and less than 30% were fully immunised according to the recent 1994 recommended schedule (see attachment 10).
Last updated:
1 October, 2003
Review Date: January 2004
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