The cell samples are sent to a pathology laboratory where they are examined under a microscope. If abnormal cells are spotted at an early stage, treatment can be given which will prevent these changes from developing into cancer. The presence of genital HPV has been found in almost all cases of cervical cancer. Genital HPV is primarily transmitted through sexual contact and, therefore, the risk factors for cervical cancer are related to sexual behaviour. Cervical cancer differs from many other cancers in that the rate rises rapidly in women in young age groups.
Indigenous women are also a high risk group.
Although statewide information on the incidence and mortality for cervical cancer in indigenous women is not available, there is some data relating to indigenous communities in rural and remote Queensland. The data reveals the incidence of cervical cancer in Aboriginal communities is 4.7 times higher than the rest of Queensland, and the mortality rate 13.3 times higher. Recommendations For Pap smear screening to be effective, tests should be done regularly. Some groups of women still remain underscreened or unscreened. These women include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, women living in rural and remote areas, women over 50 and women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.