Stefanson said the Manitoba Cervical Cancer Screening Program will be phased in over the next year. It ensures all measures are in place to prevent cervical cancer and its impact on women. Cancer of the cervix is often preventable and can be treated successfully if diagnosed at an early stage. Pap smears, a common screening test, can detect pre-cancerous cells or lesions in women who have no symptoms or discomfort. Research shows that regular Pap tests and followup with at-risk patients has steadily reduced the death rate from cervical cancer.
Pap tests are available to women as an insured service in Manitoba.
Cancer of the cervix is the 11 th most common cancer in women. The minister noted within Canada, British Columbia, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Prince Edward Island have cervical cancer screening registries in place. Program planning and development is ongoing in several provinces.