â–ş Listen Live
â–ş Listen Live

Province launching do-it-yourself cervical cancer screening

The B.C. government is launching an at-home screening program that will test for cervical cancer.

Provincial officials said it’s the first of its kind in Canada.

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women globally and 99 per cent of cervical cancers are caused by high-risk HPV.

“Whereas pap tests detect changes to the cells of the cervix that have been caused by HPV, HPV testing can detect the presence of high-risk types of HPV before cell changes have occurred,” said Dr. Gina Ogilvie, Tier 1 Canada research chair in global control of HPV-related diseases and prevention, University of British Columbia, and affiliate scientist, BC Cancer in a release.

“Cervix self-screening is not only more effective, but also safe and easy and will help us prevent many unnecessary deaths.”

Premier David Eby said it will make it easier to get tests as many women avoid pap tests for multiple reasons.

“This more accurate, comfortable and convenient way to test will encourage more women, and vulnerable populations like trans people, across the province to get screened, including in more rural and remote communities. By working together, we can eliminate deadly cervical cancer in B.C. in the next decade.”

Those aged 25-69 will be able to order a kit starting on Jan. 29.

Josiah Spyker
Josiah Spyker
Josiah is an integral part of our East Kootenay team. Since joining Vista Radio in 2021, he has combined his love of community and sport in his reporting for the news team, while also stepping in as an on-air announcer.

Continue Reading

cjat Now playing play

ckqr Now playing play

- Advertisement -

Related Articles

- Advertisement -

Latest News

B.C. forecast to reach record high $11.6B deficit this year

British Columbia’s deficit is only going up, according to the latest budget update.

B.C. Green candidates shared visions for party future in weekend leadership debate

B.C. Green party candidates faced off in a leadership debate Saturday in downtown Victoria. 

Federal Court of Appeal rejects ostrich farm’s cull appeal

Edgewood’s Universal Ostrich Farm has lost its latest attempt at the Federal Court of Appeal for another stay order to prevent the cull of its flock of nearly 400. 

Missing antlers sought in Warfield

A woman who lost her father recently is hoping to recover some of his antlers.

Trail homeless shelter usually full: BC Housing

Trail's homeless shelter is operating at or near capacity, despite rumors to the contrary.
- Advertisement -