This Cervical Cancer Awareness Week (16-22 November), we're shining a light on self-collection for cervical screening and reminding women and people with a cervix that regular screening is one of the best ways to help protect your health.
Available across Australia, self-collection allows eligible participants to collect their own sample for HPV screening without the need for a speculum examination or healthcare professional. It is done in a private area at a healthcare clinic and is quick, easy, and just as accurate as a test done by a doctor or nurse.
A recent report from the National Cervical Screening Program revealed self-collection uptake has risen to 52% across the country, up from 45% at the same time last year. Uptake has been highest among groups that have historically participated less in cervical screening, including people living in very remote areas and those who have never screened or were overdue for their next screening.
Why screen?
Cervical cancer is the fifth most common cancer in women worldwide. In Australia last year, there were 946 new cases and 254 deaths. In 2026, it is estimated that there will be around 320 diagnoses and 73 deaths in NSW, with the average age at diagnosis being 50.
However, cervical cancer is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer. Almost all cases are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a virus that eight out of 10 sexually active people will have at some point in their lives.
While HPV often clears without causing harm, regular screening can detect the virus early and identify people who may benefit from further testing or follow-up care. All women and people with a cervix aged 25-74 are recommended to screen every five years.
Around 70% of cervical cancer diagnoses occur in people who have never been screened or are not up to date with screening. Regular cervical screening can help detect cell changes early, giving you the best chance of treatment if needed.
Reaching under-screened communities
People living in communities who have historically participated in cervical screening less than others face a higher risk of cervical cancer.
Research shows that participation in cervical screening is lower among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, with screening rates around 18% less than non-Indigenous women. Participation is also lower among women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Some people put off cervical screening because they find speculum exams uncomfortable, face language barriers, or struggle to find healthcare information and services that feel culturally safe and inclusive.
Self-collection can help address these challenges as it offers a more culturally appropriate and private screening option.
Working to improve accessibility
Making screening more accessible is only part of the solution. Many people are still unaware that self-collection is available as an option.
Cancer Council NSW has hosted in-language education workshops with multicultural communities in numerous locations across the state to increase knowledge, awareness and participation in the National Cervical Screening Program.
Only 36.2% of workshop attendees were aware of self-collection, highlighting a significant knowledge gap. Only 63% reported that they'd previously participated in cervical screening.
For the first time, in partnership with healthcare providers, Cancer Council NSW was able to offer self-collection to attendees on site. Many participants chose to self-collect a sample at the end of the workshop, with some engaging in cervical screening for the first time in their lives.
Take the step towards prevention
Increasing engagement in self-collection is encouraging, but there is still room for improvement.
Australia has one of the lowest rates of cervical cancer in the world, but to eliminate the disease, all eligible women and people with a cervix must participate in screening.
If you're due for cervical screening, speak with your healthcare provider about your options, including self-collection.
Book your cervical screening test today.
See also:
Laura's story: Finding strength, gratitude and purpose after cancer
5 ways to reduce your risk of cervical cancer
