A recent report from the Centre for Research Excellence in Cervical Cancer Control suggests that Australia is on track to become the first country in the world to "eliminate" cervical cancer by 2035.

But what does that actually mean?

This has caused a lot of confusion (myself included). When I first read the headlines, it sounded like cervical cancer would become a disease of the past. The reality though is a little more complex and very important to understand.

Before diving into what "elimination" means, it's wise to understand what cervical cancer is. 

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What Is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer is a cancer that develops in the cervix (the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina). In most cases, it is caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of the human papillomavirus (HPV).

Over time, HPV can cause abnormal cell changes in the cervix and if these changes aren't detected and treated early, they can develop into cancer. 

The reassuring part is that unlike many other cancers, cervical cancer is largely preventable and can be reduced through:

👉 Vaccinations
👉 Regular screenings
👉 Early interventions

 

Elimination Doesn't Mean Zero Cases

In public health, the term "elimination" has a very specific definition. Elimination means reducing cervical cancer to fewer than 4 cases per 100,000 women per year, not completely eradicating it. 

It's looking like Australia may reach this threshold by 2035, but this is very much dependent on:

👉 Screening participation
👉 HPV vaccination uptake
👉 Continued government support

With Australia's population expected to reach around 31.5 million by 2035, it's estimated that approximately 630 women could still be diagnosed each year. 

So yes, Australia has the lowest rates in the world, but hundreds of women will still face the disease every year. 

 

Why Is Australia Leading The Way?

The progress Australia has made is driven by three key factors including widespread HPV vaccinations, regular cervical screening programs and early treatment of precancerous changes. 

Together these efforts have already made a real, measurable difference and are changing the future of this disease. 

✨ Did You Know ✨

 → In 2021, the national cervical cancer rate dropped from 6.6 to 6.3 per 100,000.

and

  → For the first time since records began in 1982, no cases were diagnosed in women under 25. 

Not only have the diagnosis rates decreased, but survival rates are also improving, with the 5 year survival rate increasing from 73.9% to 76.8%.

Even though Australia has made great improvements, there are still challenges that remain. For example, HPV vaccination rates have slightly declined in recent years, and if this isn't addressed, it can easily slow progress down.

At the same time though, innovations like the self-collection screening options are helping close very important gaps. 

This new collection process has:

👉 Increased participation in under-screened groups. 
👉 Improved access to First Nations communities, people with disabilities, LGBTQIA+ individuals and those who live in remote areas.  
👉 Made screening more accessible for people who find traditional methods invasive or triggering. 

The self-collection option is proving to be a great step towards making prevention more accessible, more comfortable and more inclusive for everyone. 

 

What Does This Mean For You?

Even as cervical cancer is becoming more rare, it hasn't disappeared. The good news is that there are simple, proactive steps you can take to protect your health, like staying up to date with your cervical screenings (which is much easier considering new the self-collection option) and if you are eligible, getting vaccinated. 

 

Where Can You Find Support?

If this topic feels a little close to home or brings up any concerns, there is support available for you. 

Of course you can start by speaking to your GP or healthcare provider. You might also find it helpful to explore other trusted organisations like Cancer Council Australia, the Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation and WeCan who offer clear, reliable information and support services. 

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With all of this to be said, Australia is on track to make cervical cancer rare, but not extinct. 

Reaching "elimination" would be a major public health milestone and could save thousands of lives, but it doesn't mean the work is done. 

Behind every statistic is a real person, a real diagnosis and a real story. Hundreds of women get diagnosed every year in Australia, which is why continued awareness, screenings and vaccinations continue to be essential.

Make sure you look after yourself, stay informed and to not skip your screenings, because your health matters. 

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