Less than two years ago, at the age of 29, Bendigo woman Casey McIntyre received a shocking stage four cervical cancer diagnosis.
"I actually went to hospital because I had a ruptured cyst on my ovaries," Ms McIntyre said. "While they were scanning the ovaries, they found the mass.
"I was in shock, I thought I was too young to get cervical cancer.”
She is using her experience to raise awareness among young Victorians of the risks of developing cervical cancer and the importance of prioritising screening when you turn 25.
“I hope that other women or people with cervixes hear my story and realise that you don’t have to be old to get cervical cancer. I hope that my story can highlight the importance of early detection and help to save lives.”
Her campaign comes at a time when rates of cervical screening have decreased, because of the change to the test and likely in part due to the COVID-19 pandemic – the number of Cervical Screening Tests in Victoria were down 58% in January–September 2020, compared to January–September 2019.
Before the pandemic, cervical screening rates among Victorians aged 25 to 35 were some of the lowest across Australia. Over half of eligible Victorians in that age group are missing out on the lifesaving test.
“It is shocking that so many people my age are missing out on the chance to find cervical cancer early and prevent themselves going through invasive treatment or even a terminal diagnosis.”
Women or people with a cervix aged 25 to 74 are invited for a Cervical Screening Test every five years. Regular cervical screening offers the best protection against cervical cancer.
“You really need to get this on your to-do list.” Ms McIntrye said. “The test should only take a few minutes every five years and it could find cervical cancer early and save your life.”
“Young people need to prioritise their health and think about their future. We are not invincible.”
If you’re aged 25 to 74 and have a cervix, you need to have a Cervical Screening Test every five years. This test offers your best protection against cervical cancer.
To find out more about cervical screening and to find a provider that meets your needs, visit: cancervic.org.au/at-your-cervix